The Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Umuahia, Nigeria’s oldest FMC, remains without teaching hospital status due to the absence of a federal university offering medical sciences in Abia State.
The Chief Medical Director, Prof. Azubuike Onyebuchi, revealed this during a Thanksgiving Day event and a guided facility tour for union leaders. Dubbed “Mr. Project” by staff, Prof. Onyebuchi emphasized the need for political leaders in Abia State to advocate for establishing a federal university with a College of Medicine.
“We are appealing to our political leaders to unite and fight for a conventional university offering Medicine. Once that happens, FMC Umuahia will be upgraded to a teaching hospital. This is why we are developing infrastructure in anticipation of this change,” Onyebuchi stated.
### Ongoing Projects and Achievements
Prof. Onyebuchi showcased new infrastructure, including:
– Accident and Emergency Ward
– Microbiology Diagnostic Laboratory Complex
– New Orthopedic Ward
– Upgraded Pediatric (Okpara Ward B) and Psychiatry Ward
– Neurosurgical 40-bed Complex
– Ultra-modern 10-suite Theater Complex
– Outborn Neonatal Complex
– House Officers Quarters
– 20-room Guest House
– Resurfaced hospital roads
These projects are expected to be completed by March 2025, aligning with the performance targets set by the Federal Ministry of Health.
### Challenges and Progress
While funding for tertiary hospitals has improved, Onyebuchi noted gaps in receiving all necessary resources. He commended the Federal Government for easing staff replacement amid the “Japa” syndrome, which has seen many healthcare professionals leaving Nigeria.
Addressing staff welfare, he highlighted timely promotions, payment of arrears, and efforts to attract increased budgetary allocations. “Management under my watch will ensure FMC Umuahia ranks among the best globally,” he said.
### Bishop’s Call for Unity
His Grace, Bishop Chibuzor Raphael Opoko of the Methodist Church Nigeria, urged staff to respect senior colleagues and avoid backbiting. He called for patience and hard work, emphasizing that leadership comes in due time.
Union leaders representing various healthcare professionals participated in the guided tour, expressing optimism about the centre’s transformation under Prof. Onyebuchi’s leadership.
