By Stanley Nwako
The Anambra State Chapter of the National Association of Scientific Officers (NASO) has commended Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo for approving 100 per cent Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) for health workers in the state, describing the decision as a landmark achievement that will improve staff welfare, boost morale and strengthen healthcare delivery.
The NASO Chairman in Anambra State, Dr Obikwelu Emmanuel M., expressed the association's appreciation on Tuesday during its celebration of the 2026 World Science Day for Peace and Development at the Ministry of Environment Conference Hall. He described the Governor's approval as a demonstration of responsive leadership and recognition of the contributions of health professionals to the state's healthcare development.
Recounting how he received the news, Dr Obikwelu disclosed that the Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, called him around midnight, initially leaving him wondering whether the call was connected to the World Science Day celebration scheduled for the following day. He said he later came across the breaking news announcing the Governor's approval, which brought excitement and relief to health workers.
The NASO Chairman expressed profound gratitude to Governor Soludo for what he described as a timely and generous intervention, noting that the approval would encourage scientific officers and other health professionals to remain committed to their duties. He said the decision demonstrated the Governor's recognition of the critical role health workers play in delivering quality and accessible healthcare services.
Dr Obikwelu also applauded the Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, for his sustained advocacy, commitment and interest in the welfare of scientific officers and other health professionals. He noted that the Commissioner's efforts had contributed to advancing the interests of health workers and promoting a more supportive working environment within the state's health sector.
He expressed optimism that the approval would inspire greater dedication, unity and productivity among health professionals, stressing that improved staff welfare was essential to building a motivated workforce and achieving better healthcare outcomes. He reaffirmed NASO's appreciation to the Governor and the Commissioner for their commitment to the advancement of the health sector.
The commendation formed part of the association's celebration of the 2026 World Science Day for Peace and Development, organised under the theme, **"Common Ground Through Science Diplomacy."** In his address, Dr Obikwelu highlighted the importance of science in promoting peaceful coexistence, strengthening international partnerships and addressing global challenges, including emerging health threats, food insecurity, climate change and environmental degradation.
Dr Obikwelu encouraged scientific officers across different sectors to join NASO, describing the association as an important platform for professional development, collaboration, unity and the advancement of scientific practice. He urged members to remain committed to excellence and the application of science in addressing societal challenges, while reaffirming the association's determination to contribute meaningfully to healthcare development and the overall progress of Anambra State.
The event featured scientific presentations and discussions on emerging health challenges, food security, environmental threats, renewable energy, sustainable electricity supply, safe water, improved sanitation, hygiene and public health. Participants examined the importance of scientific innovation and collaboration in addressing challenges affecting communities and promoting sustainable development.
Other highlights included goodwill messages from partner organisations, interactive discussions, question-and-answer sessions and the official launch of the NASO Constitution. The activities provided an opportunity for scientific officers and stakeholders to exchange ideas, strengthen professional relationships and explore ways of advancing scientific practice.
