The 2026 edition of the MAK Nigerian Medical Students’ Association (NiMSA) Health Week, hosted between 20th to 24th of May, at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology in Ogbomosho, Oyo State, was an outstanding gathering that brought together medical students and delegates from across the country for a week filled with academic engagement, leadership discussions, networking, culture, recreation, and community service.
NiMSA, the umbrella body representing medical students across Nigeria, is committed to promoting unity, excellence, leadership, and service among future healthcare professionals. The annual Health Week serves as one of the association’s flagship events, providing a platform for medical students from different institutions to connect, learn, compete, and contribute meaningfully to society through health advocacy and outreach activities.
The Health Week is now officially known as the MAK NiMSA Health Week, a name adopted in honour and remembrance of three medical students — Mustapha, Aisha, and Kabiru — who tragically lost their lives during a boating accident at the 2023 NiMSA Health Week in Calabar. The acronym “MAK” was coined from their names as a lasting tribute to their memories and contributions to the medical student community.
With the theme and spirit of unity strongly reflected throughout the program, MAK NiMSA Health Week 2026 officially commenced on Wednesday evening with a vibrant Meet and Greet session. Delegates arriving from different medical schools across Nigeria had the opportunity to interact, introduce themselves, and build meaningful connections. The atmosphere was warm, exciting, and welcoming, setting the tone for the memorable days ahead.
Thursday morning featured an insightful Symposium themed “The AI Clinic: Fighting Health Misinformation in the Digital Age.” The session hosted distinguished speakers and panelists who discussed the growing role of artificial intelligence in healthcare, the dangers of misinformation in the digital era, and the responsibilities of healthcare professionals in promoting accurate medical information. Delegates were enlightened through engaging discussions, innovative ideas, and practical perspectives on the future of digital healthcare communication.
The intellectual atmosphere continued into Thursday afternoon with the National Debate and National Quiz competitions. Participants from different institutions showcased brilliance, teamwork, and academic excellence in highly competitive sessions that kept delegates intellectually engaged and entertained.
Thursday night came alive with a Social Party where delegates relaxed, bonded, and enjoyed moments of fun after a productive day of activities. The evening was filled with music, laughter, and memorable interactions among students from different regions of the country.
Friday morning provided delegates with time to rest before activities resumed later in the day. The National Executive Council (NEC) Meeting commenced in the afternoon, bringing together national executives and representatives to deliberate on important issues, strategic plans, and developments concerning the association. The National Quiz competition also continued on Friday after extending beyond Thursday’s schedule, ensuring the completion of all rounds of the contest.
One of the major highlights of the week was the colorful and culturally rich Ojude NiMSA program held on Friday evening. Delegates proudly appeared in beautiful cultural attires representing their various regions including the Southwest, South-South, Northern region, and others. Each region adopted unique dress styles that reflected the diversity and cultural richness of Nigeria.
The event beautifully promoted unity, cultural appreciation, and national pride while creating an atmosphere of celebration and togetherness. Following the day’s engagements, delegates also enjoyed another social gathering on Friday night, further strengthening friendships and connections formed throughout the week.
Saturday featured multiple impactful activities occurring simultaneously, including Sports, Fitness Exercises, and Medical Outreach programs. While some delegates participated in sporting and fitness activities that encouraged wellness and teamwork, others engaged in medical outreach services, demonstrating NiMSA’s commitment to healthcare advocacy and community impact. Later in the afternoon, the National Executive Council (NEC) Meeting continued, extending into the evening as important deliberations and discussions progressed.
The highly anticipated Dinner and Awards Night held on Saturday night brought the Health Week to a grand and elegant conclusion. Delegates appeared beautifully dressed as exceptional individuals and contributions were recognized and celebrated. The evening was filled with joy, appreciation, entertainment, and unforgettable memories. By Sunday morning, delegates began departing the venue and returning to their various institutions, carrying with them lasting memories, valuable lessons, meaningful friendships, and renewed inspiration.
Overall, MAK NiMSA Health Week 2026 was a tremendous success. Beyond the academic and administrative activities, the event strengthened unity among Nigerian medical students, promoted leadership development, celebrated cultural diversity, encouraged collaboration, and reinforced the spirit of service to humanity. The NiMSA Healthcare Alliance also played a commendable role throughout the program, contributing significantly to the success and impact of the week.
Indeed, MAK NiMSA Health Week 2026 in Ogbomosho will remain a remarkable chapter in the history of the association and in the hearts of all delegates who participated.
Editor’s note:
This report was written by Edobor Faith Abayemotu, the 49th National Treasurer of the Nigerian Medical Students Association (NiMSA).
