CMD Declares NAPRAS/NBIS Conference Open, Calls for Stronger Collaboration in Burn and Reconstructive Care

The 31st Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference of the National Association of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons, NAPRAS, and the 19th Scientific Conference of the Nigeria Burn Injuries Society, NBIS, commenced on Thursday, August 20, 2026.

The conference was held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, with the theme “Quality Improvement in Plastic Surgery” and sub-theme “Comprehensive Cleft Care”.

The keynote address was delivered by Prof. Peter Olaitan, Professor of Burns and Plastic Surgery, University of Osun State, UNIOSUN. In his lecture, he emphasized the burden of cleft lip and palate among children in Africa, noting that thousands of children are born with clefts annually across the continent. He stressed that many of these children face challenges of feeding difficulties, speech impairment, social stigma and limited access to timely surgical care.

He called for expanded comprehensive cleft care teams, increased public awareness, early intervention, and stronger partnerships to ensure that every African child born with a cleft receives safe, affordable and multidisciplinary treatment that restores function, dignity and quality of life.

The Chief Medical Director, Prof. Jesse Abiodun Otegbayo, was represented by the Deputy Chairman Medical Advisory Committee, DCMAC, on Clinical Services, Prof. Olusola Olawoye. She commended the leadership of NAPRAS and NBIS for sustaining the annual platform for knowledge exchange and professional interaction, and acknowledged the Local Organising Committee for hosting the conference.

In her address, she said: “Burn injuries remain a major public health concern due to their link to prolonged hospitalisation, disability, disfigurement, psychological distress and significant socioeconomic consequences for patients and their families.

The theme and scientific focus of this gathering provide professionals the opportunity to examine emerging developments, share experiences, review current practices and develop innovative approaches to the management of complex clinical conditions. The best outcomes are achieved when specialists work together for the benefit of the patient. Healthcare providers must emphasize continuous professional development, research and innovation tailored to Nigeria’s peculiar realities. UCH remains committed to supporting research, training and partnerships that will improve healthcare delivery.”

Prof. Olawoye urged all participants to maximize the opportunities of this conference by building professional networks, exchanging ideas and establishing partnerships that can continue beyond the event.