By Nkechinyere Ewa-Okpara
Governor Francis Nwifuru has hailed the transformation of the David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital (DUFUTH), describing it as a centre for advanced medical training that is significantly enhancing healthcare delivery in Ebonyi State and beyond.
Speaking during the hospital’s 3rd anniversary, Governor Nwifuru stated, “We have witnessed remarkable improvements in our healthcare delivery. The hospital has become a centre for advanced medical training, ensuring that our students are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary for them to excel in medical care.”
He praised the dedicated staff of DUFUTH, saying, “Let me at this juncture highly commend the dedicated staff of David Umahi Federal Teaching Hospital. It is through your tireless effort, compassion, and professionalism, which have not gone unnoticed, that this institution stands tall. As I’ve always said, nobody will go unrewarded. You are the backbone of this institution. Your commitment inspires hope and healing in the lives of countless individuals across the state and beyond. I say thank you for everything.”
Governor Nwifuru called on all stakeholders government officials, healthcare professionals, and community leaders to work together in addressing existing challenges. “We must work as one family. The government will continue to enact health-focused policies to ensure the well-being of Ebonyi people and uphold the highest standards of medical care,” he said.
He added that the vision behind establishing the hospital was not just infrastructure development but a strategic effort to ensure accessible, quality healthcare for all. “As I look around, I proudly see that we’ve made significant strides in achieving this vision,” he noted.
On the issue of power supply, the governor revealed that work is progressing at the Amasiri power station, which will soon be completed to provide uninterrupted electricity to the hospital and surrounding areas.
Earlier in her address, the Chief Medical Director of DUFUTH, Professor Uzoma Ahwu, disclosed that the hospital has surpassed public expectations. She also announced that “every caesarean section in the hospital is free.”
Highlighting her achievements since assuming office, Prof. Ahwu said several critical departments have received accreditation from major regulatory bodies, including the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria, and the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria.
Departments already accredited include Medical and Dental, Radiography, Optometry, Medical Laboratory, Pharmacy, Medical Records, Nursing Services, and Physiotherapy all within just three years of the hospital’s establishment.
Prof. Agwu also revealed that plans are underway to commence residency training in 2025. The Obstetrics and Gynaecology (O&G) department has already secured accreditation for residency training following a successful facility inspection by the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria (NPMC) on May 21, 2025. She expressed optimism that departments such as Medicine, Family Medicine, Surgery, and Paediatrics will also begin residency programs before the end of the year.
Building on previous achievements, DUFUTH fully activated clinical services at its Mother and Child Centre in 2023. The 100-bed facility, constructed under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Initiative and handed over to DUFUTH by the Federal Government, is equipped with modern technology to enhance maternal and pediatric care.
“The President Muhammadu Buhari Mother and Child Centre represents our resolve to ensure unhindered access to quality healthcare across all stages of maternal and child health. Every caesarean section is free,” Prof. Ahwu emphasised.
Highlights of the event included the unveiling of the DUFUTH Magazine and the presentation of research grants to ten researchers within the hospital.