In a heartfelt Christmas message, Dr. Casmir Ifeanyi, the 15th National President of the Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AMLSN), has extended warm wishes to members of the Association while reaffirming his commitment to unity, professionalism, and the growth of the profession amidst ongoing leadership disputes.
In the message titled “It’s a Season of Joy and Love,” and made available to news men by the Association’s National Publicity Secretary — Prince Adedire Adeyinka, Dr. Ifeanyi expressed gratitude for the resilience and loyalty of AMLSN members during a tumultuous period marked by what he called an “artificial leadership crisis.” The controversy stems from a pending case before the National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN), where Dr. Ifeanyi and Dr. Uche Odionyenma are at odds over the rightful succession of the Association’s presidency.
The leadership tussle began following the expiration of Prof. James Damen’s tenure as the 14th National President on November 18, 2023. Dr. Casmir Ifeanyi was validly elected as the 15th National President. However, Dr. Uche Odionyenma has laid claim to the position, citing an earlier court ruling which was not implemented prior to the end of Prof. Damen’s term. The NICN is set to determine the matter, with both parties awaiting a resolution that could have significant implications for the Association’s future governance.
Despite the legal battles, Dr. Ifeanyi’s message sought to inspire hope and resilience among AMLSN members.
“Christmas is a time of hope, renewal, and gratitude. Over the past six months, we have faced trying times marked by artificial leadership crises that sought to shake the foundations of our unity. Yet, you have stood firm, upholding the tenets and ideals of the Association with strong resolve,” Dr. Ifeanyi stated.
He likened the association’s challenges to the story of Christmas, emphasizing that just as the birth of Christ brought hope and triumph over adversity, AMLSN would overcome its trials.
He urged members to focus on the greater good of the profession and the health sector, pledging to work tirelessly toward advancing the interests of medical laboratory scientists across Nigeria. He also emphasized the importance of professionalism and adherence to the Association’s constitution as tools for maintaining unity and integrity.
“Let this season remind us that after every storm comes calm… Together, we will continue to surmount obstacles for the greater good of our beloved profession and the health of the Nation we serve,” he noted.
The President called for a renewed commitment to excellence as the Association steps into a new year. He stressed the importance of resilience and shared purpose, assuring members that unity would prevail over challenges.
The ongoing crisis has raised concerns about its potential impact on the Medical Laboratory Science profession in Nigeria. AMLSN, as one of the key stakeholders in the healthcare sector, plays a critical role in Diagnostics and Healthcare delivery. Observers within the health sector are hopeful that the NICN’s verdict will bring clarity and stability to the Association, enabling it to focus on its mandate of advancing the profession and improving healthcare services.
Dr. Ifeanyi concluded his message by wishing AMLSN members a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. He expressed optimism that the Association would emerge stronger and more united, ready to face the challenges and opportunities of 2025.
“May this Christmas fill your homes with peace, your hearts with love, and your days with boundless joy,” he said.
While NICN prepares to deliver its verdict, AMLSN members and Stakeholders in the Healthcare sector eagerly await a resolution that will reaffirm the association’s commitment to democratic principles and professional excellence.
Dr. Ifeanyi’s Christmas message serves as a rallying call for unity and hope, reminding members of their collective strength and shared mission as custodians of the Medical Laboratory Science profession in Nigeria.
Chris Okunlola reporting in Abuja.
