By Ovat Abeng
The Chief Medical Director, CMD of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, NAUTH, Nnewi,Anambra state, Prof. Joseph Ugboaja has commended President Bola Ahmed in his continuous intervention in the country”s health sector.
It was gathered that the commendation is coming weeks after the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate unveiled the relocation of the hospital to its permanent site in Nnewi.
Addressing Journalists in his office on Wednesday, Prof Ugboaja described the unveiling/visit as not only timely but also strategic and aligns with the Nigerian Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSRII) which emphasizes a sector wide and unified approach among all the stakeholders towards tackling the Nigerian Health challenges.
The CMD said that the success of the movement of the hospital from the Temporary site to the more spacious and beaufiul Permanent site was achieved through a strategic framework anchored on collaborative efforts among the critical stakeholders in health sector in Nigeria.
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“These include the Presidency through OSSAP- SDG, the Federal Ministry of Health, the Anambra state government, the traditional institution, community leaders and philanthropists among others.
The CMD further mentioned that the achievements and successes recorded by NAUTH so far is as a result of aligning its strategies and priorities along the Nigerian Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative, NHSRII which he noted was built on four pillars.
He mentioned the four pillars as improving governance of the health sector, enhancing population health outcomes, unlocking the healthcare value chain and ensuring health security.
According to him, “the NHSRII, through the Compact and the Sector-Wide Approach, SWAP emphasizes coordinated efforts between federal and state governments, development partners and private sector entities”.
This integration, he said will ensure that resources are effectively utilized as there is a unified approach to tackling healthcare challenges. The development of NAUTH exemplifies these principles showcasing the power of strategic thinking and partnership through a 10-year development plan, aimed at positioning the institution to be among the top three health facilities in Nigeria by 2030.
He also attributed the success of the permanent site activation to the visionary leadership of President Tinubu and HCMH&SW, Prof Muhammad Ali Pate noting that Their unwavering support and encouragement have been instrumental in fostering an environment where ambitious projects like the NAUTH Permanent site can flourish.
He said that the duo’s commitment to healthcare excellence in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda, RHA has provided the necessary impetus for transformative initiatives in Health to blossom.
“Ugboaja maintained, is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge. “This philosophy resonates deeply with leadership shown by President Tinubu and Hon. Pate whose guidance have empowered institutions like NAUTH to strive for excellence”.
He added that the effort of Mr President and HCMH& SW in repositioning NAUTH to offer more quality services is part of a broader strategy to boost quality healthcare across the country.
This initiative include extending health insurance coverage through the Basic Health Care Provision Fund, BHCPF and strengthening Primary Health Care, PHC systems Nationwide, ensuring that even the most remote communities have access to essential health services.
The expertise and advanced facilities at NAUTH and other secondary and tertiary care centers will then provide a referral network that ensures continuity of care. Patients can receive primary care at local health centers and be referred to specialized facilities like NAUTH for more complex treatments. This integrated approach enhances the overall healthcare delivery systems, ensuring that all Nigerians receive the care they need.
The CMD mentioned that the HCMH&SW, Prof Muhammad Ali Pate CON, does not view the commissioning of the NAUTH Permanent Site as just a celebration of past accomplishments but a reaffirmation of the commitment of the present administration towards a brighter future for healthcare in Nigeria.
Ugboaja also commended the State Governor, Charles Soludo, former Director-General of Budget Office, Ben Akabueze, SSA to President on SDG, Princess Adegoke Orelope-Adefulire, Sir Emeka Offor, Chief Cletus Ibeto and the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah for their tireless efforts towards transforming NAUTH.
