By Jennifer John
Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has promised that his government will do all within its powers to assist the Federal University Teaching Hospital, Owerri to achieve its mandate.
The governor gave the assurance in his address during the official Flagg off of the Federal University Teaching Hospital, Owerri, and in reaction to the demand for land by the Management of the Federal Medical Centre, Owerri to enable it to do the necessary expansions, in line with its new status as Federal University Teaching Hospital.
He urged the Federal Ministry of Health and its Education counterpart to take note of the new challenges that come with the new status of the medical center, as a Federal University Teaching hospital, as enumerated by the Chief Medical Director, and take steps to address them.
He appreciated the Ministry of Health for its support to the hospital so far, especially the donation of a new Oxygen plant, among other largesse to the hospital.
“But I am made to understand that there is a need for certain sophisticated equipment like C.T. Scan machine, MRI, Catlarg machines, and many others required by the hospital to be able to deliver 21st-century health care services.
“It is my hope that you will adopt this hospital as your baby, especially for its unique history and symbolism.
Uzodimma while commending; the Minister of State for Health, chairman and members of the Governing Council of FUTO, Chairman and members of the Board of FMC, Vice Chancellor of FUTO, and all Imo sons and daughters for their passionate contribution to the realization of the project, made it clear that their support is even needed more now.
In her speech, the Vice Chancellor of FUTO, Prof. Oti noted that she feels humbled that the many years of efforts to have FUTO also function as a medical college was realised under her watch, s development she described as “epic achievement.”
She lauded President Buhari and all those who made it possible in the health and education ministries and more importantly, Dr. Osagie Ehanire (Health) and Mallam Adamu Adamu (Education).
The Minister of State, Health, Barr. Joseph Nkama-Ekumankama who said the Teaching Hospital is already classified as a Tier One institution had this to say: “It was as a result of the doggedness, commitment, and passion of Governor Uzodimma that led to the upgrading of this institution from FMC to a teaching hospital.”
In his remarks, The Chairman of FUTO Governing Board Senator Tilley-Gyado thanked the President for trusting the leadership capacity and judgement of Governor Uzodimma, insisting that the Governor is not used to failure.
“Uzodimma’s chemistry is very universal. He is so charming. If you see him, you love him. Without him, it would not have been possible to get this teaching hospital.”
Highlight of the occasion was the foundation laying ceremony for an E-library for the Medical School, performed by the governor and the Minister of State for Health.
