IDN Executive Visits FETHI, Seeks Dietetics Training Centre, Staff Development

The Executive Committee of the Institute for Dietetics in Nigeria (IDN), Ekiti State Chapter, has paid a courtesy visit to the Chief Medical Director of the Federal Teaching Hospital, Ido-Ekiti (FETHI), Prof. Kolawole Ogundipe, seeking stronger professional collaboration, improved recognition and enhanced development of the Dietetics profession.

The delegation, led by the Chapter Chairman, DTN Ajayi Adedoyin, commended Prof. Ogundipe for his human-centred leadership and positive impact on the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics since his days as Chief Medical Director of the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado-Ekiti.

DTN Adedoyin, who represented the National President, Barr. Ahmed Tajudeen, appealed to FETHI management to consider the hospital as an accredited centre for Dietetics internship training, citing limited internship opportunities in the South-West.

She also called for continued staff welfare and professional development, including conversion of eligible Nutrition cadre staff to the Dietetics cadre.

In his contribution, the Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee, Dr. Olabisi Adeyemo, said management recognises both Nutrition and Dietetics as professional fields and remains committed to staff welfare based on requisite qualifications and valid practising licences.

The CMD, Prof. Ogundipe, appreciated the delegation and reaffirmed management's commitment to supporting professional development. He emphasised the importance of proper nutrition to healthy living and commended the Department for its contributions to quality healthcare delivery.

Prof. Ogundipe also expressed management's willingness to consider relevant mop-up courses and study leave for eligible staff, provided patient care and hospital operations are not compromised. On cadre conversion, he said eligible staff would receive due consideration, subject to professional qualifications and availability of approved vacancies.

The CMD further urged professional and regulatory bodies in Nutrition and Dietetics to strengthen collaboration and present a united front to maximise growing recognition of the professions in Nigeria's healthcare system.

Also present were the Chief of Staff to the CMD, Dr. Kamal Alabi, and Head of Information and Corporate Affairs, Mr. Isaac Anifowose.

Other members of the delegation were DTN Akanni Omoronke, PRO, FETHI; DTN Adekola Olufunke, Secretary, Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital; DTN Adaramola Eniola, Auditor, Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti; and DTN Adebayo Tomilola, Head, Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, FETHI.