Benigno Aquino III once said, "With proper governance, life will improve for all."
Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH) Nnewi, was established in 1992, exactly 33 years ago, transitioning from a general hospital to a tertiary institution. But, the condition of its temporary site did not reflect the status of a tertiary hospital.
While operating at the temporary site, NAUTH faced numerous challenges, including dilapidated buildings, space constraints, and staff congestion in offices. It also operated with a 300-bed capacity, further limiting its efficiency and global visibility.
However, following the relocation of NAUTH to its permanent site just three years ago, the narrative changed dramatically. What seemed like a daunting and nearly impossible task—given the enormous resources required—was made possible through the hard work and determination of the Chief Medical Director (CMD), Professor Joseph Ugboaja (OON), Ochinanwata, and his dedicated team. Through the strategic application of his 9 Strategic Pillars Policy, the CMD was able to overcome previous barriers.
Today, NAUTH is the talk of the town, with its global visibility significantly enhanced. The hospital is now attracting potential investors—both local and international—who are eager to partner with it in pursuit of medical excellence.
Upon assuming office, the CMD expanded the scope of the NAUTH Management Committee by inviting top experts to join his transformation team. His goal was to elevate NAUTH to rank among the top three teaching hospitals in Nigeria by 2030, ultimately aiming to make it the best. The team remains focused and committed to achieving this goal.
The CMD’s passion for NAUTH has brought about significant transformations in its operations, earning him praises from all quarters. During the inaugural visit of the new NAUTH Board Chairman, Hon. Ali Bukar Dalori, he lauded the administration’s progress and pledged to leverage his political connections to secure additional funding and projects for the hospital.
Just days after Hon. Dalori’s visit, he facilitated a meeting between the CMD and the Vice-President of Nigeria, His Excellency Kashim Shettima (GCON), where the CMD presented his achievements and plans for NAUTH. As a result of this engagement, the Vice-President is scheduled to visit NAUTH on Thursday, April 10, 2025, to celebrate the second anniversary of the commissioning of the hospital’s permanent site, and to commission Bola Ahmed Tinubu Administrative Complex, a legacy project by NAUTH.
Indeed, much has changed at NAUTH. The myth of unnecessary delays in patient care has become a thing of the past. Many medical consultants now have spacious, well-equipped offices in which to attend to patients—an improvement from the temporary site. At the permanent site, office spaces and parking lots are abundant, eliminating previous limitations. The relocation has also allowed for the employment of additional staff to fill new roles, further enhancing the hospital’s capacity to serve the public. The staff have received further training and are now better motivated, leading to improved job performance.
The improved road network and functional solar lights throughout the hospital grounds deserve commendation. Additionally, electric vehicles that transport patients and caregivers between various sections of the complex have made patient movement more efficient. Patients also appreciate the introduction of multiple payment options, including POS, USSD, online bank transfers, cash deposits, and e-wallets, making payments for drugs and laboratory tests more convenient than ever before.
The addition of side labs at strategic locations across the medical complexes has made it easier for patients to submit laboratory samples. Furthermore, the introduction of PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System) and RIS (Radiology Information System) has greatly improved the storage and digital transmission of patients’ medical images, such as X-rays, ultrasounds, and CT scans. The X-ray section has transitioned from analogue to digital, enabling faster processing and improved patient care. These enhanced medical facilities are also positively impacting the training of university medical students who come for clinical postings.
In addition, NAUTH has established its own Oxygen Production Plant, ensuring that oxygen is readily available for emergency cases, saving lives, and eliminating the need to rely on external sources.
Notably, the Chief Medical Director and his team are tirelessly working to align NAUTH’s administration and protocols with international standards, a result of their strategic engagements with renowned global medical institutions.
Looking ahead, NAUTH is transitioning into super-specialties, aiming to provide top-tier medical treatments and become a leading medical tourism hub in Nigeria. By replicating successful international models, the hospital aims to save lives and improve the life expectancy of Nigerians. The positive impacts of the CMD’s strategic engagements are already being felt.
Bright Anyanwu,
PAA.