The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziak Adekunle Salako, has expressed concern over the undue rivalry that continues to create bottlenecks in Nigeria’s healthcare system. He raised this issue at the 44th Annual Scientific Conference and Annual General Meeting of the Association of Health Records and Information Management Practitioners of Nigeria, themed “Abuja Renewal Conference 2025.”

Dr. Salako emphasized the need for teamwork and harmony across professional lines, noting that every health worker plays a vital role in achieving an efficient and improved healthcare system. He underscored Health Information Management (HIM) as a critical component of the ministry’s strategic blueprint, encompassing good governance, quality healthcare delivery, the health value chain, and national health security.

The Minister commended the outgoing National President of the Association, Comrade Michael Mallo, for his service and assured the Association of the ministry’s readiness to collaborate with the incoming leadership.

In his remarks, the Registrar/CEO of the Health Records Officers Registration Board of Nigeria (HRORBN), Alhaji Babagana Mustapha, reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to innovation, digital readiness, and capacity building. He noted that the Board will continue to roll out initiatives aimed at enhancing digital health compliance, expanding continuous professional development programmes, improving licensing systems, and supporting institutions in updating HIM-related curricula.

“Technology is essential and a core component of the future of healthcare delivery,” he said, stressing the importance of collaboration among practitioners, educators, policymakers, technology developers, and healthcare providers.

Also speaking, Comrade Michael Mallo reflected on his tenure, noting that his administration focused on restoring unity among members and promoting professional growth. He highlighted enhanced stakeholder engagement, strengthened advocacy on digital health literacy, and improved work ethics.

“Today, our members are becoming more participatory in the affairs of the Association and the profession,” he stated.

The conference provided a robust platform for stakeholders to discuss emerging trends, share best practices, and reinforce the pivotal role of HIM professionals in advancing national health reforms.