Abuja: The Chairman of Unnicon Group of Companies, Prof. Chuks Ekwueme, has called for collaboration with the company on its newly launched application ‘MySmartMedic’ to bridge the gap in Nigeria’s healthcare delivery. Ekwueme made the call at the launch of the MySmartMedic Application organized by the Unicorn group of Companies in Abuja. He emphasized the need to address the current shortcomings in the healthcare sector and how the application aims to fill these gaps effectively.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Ekwueme highlighted the unique features of MySmartMedic, noting that the device incorporates native aspects that leverage edge computing. This design ensures that even in the event of a network loss, users can still access and process data. The application has been customized to suit regional connectivity challenges, utilizing enhanced satellite connections where available. This ensures continuous access to digital healthcare solutions, with the ability to update records locally until internet connectivity is restored. Ekwueme also mentioned plans to expand the application’s reach to Kenya and Senegal following its Nigerian debut.
The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, represented by the Director of the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR), Ajala Olubumi, emphasized the importance of connectivity for technological transformation in healthcare. With approximately 20 million Nigerians lacking internet access, the government plans to utilize the Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NigComSat) to extend internet coverage to underserved areas, facilitating the telemedicine initiative.
Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner of the National Data Protection Commission (NDPC), conveyed the transformative potential of telemedicine. Represented by the Commission’s Legal Officer, Alexander Onwe, Olatunji stressed that innovation must be paired with trust to avoid stagnation and resistance. The NDPC is committed to supporting digital health innovation, safeguarding patient rights, strengthening regulatory frameworks, and promoting the responsible use of emerging technologies to build a secure digital future for Nigeria and Africa.