Yemi Obafemi
In a historic move to mark 50 years of institutional impact, the Association of Public Health Physicians of Nigeria (APHPN) has begun construction of its first National Secretariat and estate.
The ground-breaking ceremony took place in Karshi, a fast-growing district in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), ushering in a new chapter of stability, coordination, and stronger national presence for the Association.
The association described the initiative as a strategic investment aimed at strengthening public health practice and improving members’ welfare.
APHPN President,Dr Terfa Kene, said the estate project reflects the association’s commitment to enhancing the well-being and cohesion of its members.
“We are not merely commencing construction; we are building a legacy, strengthening our association, and securing the future of public health in our country”.
He called on stakeholders and philanthropists to further support public health initiatives in Nigeria.
Speaking further, he said the estate is structured to have 70 per cent ownership for members and 30 per cent for non-members.
” This project would promote access to healthcare professionals within the community.”
The ceremony was led by the National President of APHPN, Dr. Terfa Kene, who invited Chief Mike Duru Ejiogu, FCCN, the Chairman of City Gate Homes Ltd, Abuja, and one of the capital’s leading real estate developers, to perform the symbolic ground-breaking rites.
His participation underscored the critical intersection between infrastructure development and public health advancement in Nigeria.
Notably, the commencement of the Secretariat project represents a key fulfilment of a campaign promise made by Dr. Kene during his bid for office in Abeokuta, Ogun State, in 2025.
Then a candidate for the presidency of the Association, he had pledged to secure a permanent national secretariat for APHPN, a vision that is now taking tangible shape under his leadership.
The Secretariat project is being delivered through a strategic collaboration with Solap Signature Properties Limited, Abuja.
The Chief Executive Officer of Solap Signature Properties Limited, Architect Akosu Paul, also graciously donated the land for the development through his company.
He emphasized that the initiative aligns with a broader commitment to addressing Nigeria’s housing deficit while supporting institutional growth.
“This is more than a building project. It is a contribution to nation-building, providing a permanent base for a body that plays a critical role in shaping Nigeria’s public health outcomes.”
The National President of the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria (MWAN), Dr. Zainab Kwaru Muhammad-Idris, commended APHPN for its vision and resilience over the past 50 years. Also in attendance were key figures within the Association, including the National Secretary and Chairman of the Assets Acquisition Committee, Dr. Augustine Ajogwu; the FCT Chapter Chairman, Dr. Sebastian Esomonu; and the National Treasurer, Dr. Juliette Ango, alongside other national Secretariat staff and appointees of APHPN, reflecting strong institutional unity and support.
Adding to the significance of the occasion was the presence of retired Brigadier General Terlumun Er, senior officials from City Gate Homes Ltd, as well as respected community leaders and stakeholders from the Karshi axis. Their participation highlighted the broad-based support and collaborative spirit driving the project.
Karshi, the host community, continues to gain prominence as a strategic growth corridor within the FCT, making it a fitting location for a project of national importance.
The Secretariat, upon completion, is expected to serve as a hub for policy dialogue, professional development, research coordination, and advocacy in public health across Nigeria.
For APHPN, the ground-breaking represents more than the start of construction, it is the physical manifestation of decades of dedication to improving health systems, influencing policy, and strengthening the professional community of public health physicians in Nigeria.
The National Secretariat stands as a testament to what sustained vision, partnership, and commitment can achieve, and a bold step toward the future of public health leadership in Nigeria.
The event drew an array of distinguished stakeholders from the health, development, and security sectors.
