Otti Reconstitutes Abia Teaching Hospital Board, Names Benjamin Kalu’s Wife as Chairman

Governor Alex Otti has approved the reconstitution of the Management Board of the Abia State University Teaching Hospital, appointing Dr. Ezinne Chinyere Benjamin-Kalu as Chairman.

Dr. Ezinne Benjamin-Kalu is the wife of the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt Hon. Benjamin Kalu, who has almost indicated interest to run as the Governor of Abia State in 2027.

According to a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Emmanuel Meribole, the reconstitution aligns with the enabling law establishing the institution and is aimed at strengthening governance, improving service delivery, and enhancing the quality of medical training and healthcare services.

The newly constituted board includes Prof. Nneka Chioma Okoronkwo as Chief Medical Director, alongside other members such as Dr. Kelechi Omende, Dr. Temple Nwosu, and Dr. Patrick Umezurike. Prof. P. E. N. Onyemachi will serve as Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee, while Prof. Gazie Okpara represents the university senate. Prof. Chuks Kamanu joins as Provost of the College of Medical Sciences, with Dr Mrs. Ifeyinwa Blossom Uma Kalu representing the Health Ministry.

Mrs. Ihuoma Nwagbara will serve as Director of Administration and Secretary to the Board, and Dr Odochi Ewurum represents the Nigerian Medical Association.

Governor Otti congratulated the chairman and members of the board, urging them to justify the confidence placed in them by working diligently to reposition the teaching hospital as a centre of excellence in healthcare delivery, medical training, and research.

The appointments take immediate effect.