Ebira Doctors Applaud Governor Ododo for Establishing CUSTECH Teaching Hospital and Appointing Expert Leaders

By Stephen Adeleye

The Ebira Doctors’ Forum (EDF) has praised Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, for signing into law a bill that transforms the Reference Hospital in Okene into the Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH) Teaching Hospital.

Fully Funded Scholarships Abroad

In a statement released on Wednesday in Lokoja, EDF President Dr. Zubair Kabiru and Secretary Dr. Shaibu Moses lauded the governor for his forward-thinking leadership and commitment to advancing healthcare in the state.

“On behalf of the Ebira Doctors’ Forum, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to His Excellency, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, for his visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to improving the healthcare sector,” the statement read.

The forum highlighted the significance of the governor’s decision, noting that converting the Reference Hospital into a teaching hospital reflects a milestone in both healthcare delivery and medical education in Kogi State.

“This decision will enhance access to quality healthcare and boost the development of medical education in our state. It paves the way for increased admissions into medical school and the production of skilled healthcare professionals. At a time when Nigeria faces challenges like brain drain and the ‘Japa’ syndrome, this bold initiative will help retain talent and nurture the next generation of healthcare professionals for the state and the nation,” the EDF said.

Strengthening Healthcare Infrastructure

The EDF commended Governor Ododo for taking strategic steps to strengthen healthcare delivery in the state, including appointing seasoned professionals to key positions.

The group celebrated the appointment of Professor Solomon Avidime as Provost of the College of Health Sciences at CUSTECH, Dr. Shaibu Stephen as Chief Medical Director of the new teaching hospital, and Dr. Muazu Musa as Executive Director of the Kogi State Primary Healthcare Development Agency. These appointments, according to the EDF, underscore the governor’s commitment to fostering professionalism and excellence in healthcare.

“These appointments and the establishment of the CUSTECH Teaching Hospital underscore Your Excellency’s resolve to enhance healthcare infrastructure and build a robust workforce in the sector,” the statement added.

A Vision for a Healthier Kogi State

The forum pledged its support to Governor Ododo’s administration, expressing readiness to collaborate on initiatives that advance healthcare delivery, medical education, and the well-being of Kogi residents.

“The Ebira Doctors’ Forum is proud to be associated with your administration’s progressive strides in healthcare. We remain committed to supporting your efforts to build a healthier, stronger, and more prosperous Kogi State,” the statement concluded.

Governor Ododo’s actions have positioned Kogi State as a promising hub for medical education and innovation, with the EDF emphasizing their appreciation for his foresight and dedication to the sector.