The Port Harcourt University Medical Students’ Association (PUMSA) is mourning the tragic passing of its 35th President, Dr. Rotifa Femi, who reportedly died after an intense 72-hour work shift at the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH).
Dr. Femi, a resident doctor at RSUTH, collapsed while on duty, highlighting once again the harsh working conditions endured by young doctors across Nigeria.
PUMSA, in a statement, described him as a leader of passion, diligence, and excellence, whose contributions elevated the association and inspired many of his colleagues.
His death has sparked outrage among medical students and health professionals, who have described it as both a personal tragedy and a painful reflection of the systemic failures within Nigeria’s healthcare system. They allege that poor structures, government negligence, and disregard for the welfare of doctors have created unsafe working environments that continue to cost lives.
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“This untimely loss is not just personal—it is a grim reminder of the collapsing health sector and the disregard for the plight of doctors, especially young ones,” PUMSA stated. The association called for urgent reforms, justice, and accountability from relevant authorities, stressing that Dr. Femi’s passing must not be in vain.
As the medical community mourns, tributes continue to pour in for Dr. Femi, remembered not only as a promising doctor but also as a visionary leader dedicated to service.
He was 35th President of PUMSA, leaving behind a legacy that colleagues insist will never be forgotten.