Connected Development Launches Project To Boost Transparency In Nigeria’s Health Security Financing

Maryam Aminu

Connected Development (CODE), a leading civil society organisation promoting social accountability and citizen participation in governance, has launched a new initiative aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s health security architecture through improved transparency and accountability in public financing.

The project, titled “Tracking BHCPF NCDC Gateway Funds for Strengthening Health Security in Nigeria (Project Track – BHCPF),” focuses on monitoring the utilisation of funds disbursed through the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) gateway under the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF). The initiative is an analysis and capstone project of the Global Health Advocacy Incubator, supported by Resolve to Save Lives, and led by Hyeladzira James Mshelia and Abdulazeez Abdulmalik Hussaini.

The BHCPF remains Nigeria’s primary domestic financing mechanism for strengthening the national health system. Within this structure, the NCDC gateway is the only channel that directly supports disease surveillance, outbreak response, laboratory systems, and emergency coordination. Despite the introduction of the enhanced BHCPF 2.0 framework in October 2025, which reinforced performance and accountability standards, public access to information on NCDC gateway disbursements and utilisation remains limited.

CODE noted that this lack of transparency poses a significant challenge, as Nigeria’s epidemic preparedness and response capacity depends heavily on sustained and well-managed domestic financing for health security.

Project Track – BHCPF seeks to close critical accountability and evidence gaps that undermine effective epidemic preparedness. While domestic funding commitments have increased in recent years, CODE observed that limited utilisation data continues to weaken performance assessment and constrain evidence-based policy advocacy.

Over a six-month period, from January to June 2026, the project will generate actionable evidence to support improved oversight, institutional learning, and sustained investment in health security.
The initiative will deploy CODE’s widely recognised #FollowTheMoney accountability methodology, combining Freedom of Information (FOI) requests, policy and guideline reviews, administrative data analysis, and a focused sub-national case study to assess preparedness outcomes. Advocacy activities will include the development of policy briefs aligned with national budget and oversight cycles, structured engagement with key decision-makers, and strategic media collaboration to strengthen public accountability.

Key stakeholders for the project include the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), the Ministerial Oversight Committee on BHCPF, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, State Ministries of Health, Emergency Operations Centres, as well as civil society and media partners.

According to CODE, the project is expected to deliver measurable outcomes such as improved transparency in NCDC gateway disbursements, independent evidence to support oversight and performance assessment, stronger data-driven advocacy for domestic health security financing, and a replicable accountability framework for tracking health security investments across the country.

Describing the initiative as timely and strategic, Acting Chief Executive Officer of Connected Development, Hyeladzira James Mshelia, said the project goes beyond funding considerations.
“This is a timely response to the critical need for transparency and accountability in how domestic resources for epidemic preparedness are utilised. Strengthening health security is not only about funding; it is about accountability, learning, and impact,” Mshelia said.

With the launch of Project Track – BHCPF, Connected Development reaffirmed its commitment to advancing transparency, accountability, and citizen-driven oversight in Nigeria’s health sector, while ensuring that investments in health security translate into tangible preparedness and resilience outcomes nationwide.

Dr. Baba Abdul Bala Bags Ogba Community Service Merit Award In Kogi

Maryam Aminu

Dr. Baba Abdul Bala, a renowned development consultant and behavioural change specialist, has been honoured with the Ogba Merit Award 2025 for his outstanding contributions to community development in Kogi State.
Dr. Abdul Bala, who is the Chief Executive Officer of Starex Global Consults Ltd and McBenz Global Consults, received the Distinguished Community Service Award (DCSA) in recognition of his sustained impact on youth, sports, and peace-building initiatives in Ogba Community and Bassa Local Government Area of the state.

Dr. Baba Abdul Bala receiving his award

The award was conferred on December 27, 2025, at the NUJ Press Centre, Lokoja, during a ceremony organised by the Ogba Community Development Union (OCDU), Nigeria, where Dr. Abdul Bala serves as a patron.

Speaking at the event, the President-General of OCDU, Dr. Ishaq Dan-Imam, described the awardee as a highly skilled and knowledgeable social and behavioural change expert with over 15 years of professional experience.

He noted that Dr. Abdul Bala has played a remarkable role in the Ogba Community rebirth project through youth training programmes, capacity-building initiatives and philanthropic interventions.

Dr. Dan-Imam further highlighted Dr. Abdul Bala’s sponsorship of the Bassa Peace Football Tournament, an initiative designed to foster reconciliation and consolidate the peace process in Bassa Local Government Area after years of communal hostilities.

According to him, the honour was in recognition of Dr. Abdul Bala’s commitment to community governance, youth empowerment and sustainable development, stressing that the Ogba Community Development Union remains resolute in celebrating individuals and organisations that make tangible impacts through personal development and social transformation initiatives.

He described Dr. Abdul Bala as a visionary youth advocate and development partner, noting that his work spans organisational development, youth mentorship, entrepreneurship, skills acquisition and institutional strengthening across Nigeria and beyond.

Dr. Dan-Imam added that Dr. Abdul Bala has successfully implemented challenging social and behavioural change programmes, strategic planning sessions and system-strengthening initiatives in communities and public institutions across Nigeria, Africa, Europe and the United Arab Emirates.

2nd from left: the President-General of OCDU, Dr. Ishaq Dan-Imam in a group photograph with the awardee and other guests

A highly sought-after trainer and facilitator, Dr. Abdul Bala has worked as a consultant with several government institutions, including the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency, National Identity Management Commission, Petroleum Technology Development Fund, Federal Ministry of Finance, Federal Ministry of Water Resources, Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources, National Judicial Institute, Federal Road Safety Corps, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, and the National Space Research and Development Agency, among others.
Dr. Baba Abdul Bala holds a Higher National Diploma in Secretarial Studies, a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology, a Master’s degree in Human Resource Management, and a PhD in International Relations and Diplomacy.

Rivers Power Tussle: LATNET Writes State Speaker, Calls for Impeachment Withdrawal

LEADERSHIP AWARENESS & TRANSPARENCY NETWORK (LATNET)
Email: latnetnigeria@gmail.com

January 14, 2026

The Honourable Speaker
Rivers State House of Assembly
Moscow Road, Old GRA
Port Harcourt, Rivers State

Dear Rt. Hon. Speaker,

SUBJECT: URGENT APPEAL TO WITHDRAW THE IMPEACHMENT NOTICE SERVED ON HIS EXCELLENCY, GOVERNOR SIMINALAYI FUBARA, AND UPHOLD DEMOCRATIC STABILITY IN RIVERS STATE

The Leadership Awareness & Transparency Network (LATNET), a civil society organization committed to promoting good governance, transparency, accountability, and democratic principles in Nigeria, writes to express our profound concern over the recent initiation of impeachment proceedings against His Excellency, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, and his Deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, by the Rivers State House of Assembly on January 8, 2026.

We note with dismay the allegations of gross misconduct leveled against the Governor, including the refusal to present the 2026 Appropriation Bill, extra-budgetary spending, and other constitutional infractions. While we acknowledge the constitutional role of the House in providing checks and balances under Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), we firmly believe that embarking on impeachment at this juncture risks plunging Rivers State into further political instability, economic disruption, and unnecessary tension.

Rivers State has endured prolonged political crises in recent years, which have adversely affected development, investor confidence, and the welfare of citizens. Pursuing impeachment amid these challenges, especially when alternative mechanisms for resolution—such as dialogue facilitated by elder statesmen, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, or other neutral parties—remain viable, would undermine the progress toward peace and reconciliation.

We urge the Honourable Members of the Rivers State House of Assembly to:

  1. Immediately withdraw the impeachment notice served on Governor Fubara.
  2. Prioritize constructive engagement and mediation to address any grievances, including the presentation and passage of the 2026 budget in the interest of the people of Rivers State.
  3. Place the collective interest of Rivers State citizens above partisan or personal considerations, fostering an environment conducive to governance and development.

LATNET stands ready to support any initiative aimed at peaceful resolution and strengthening democratic institutions in Rivers State. We believe that true leadership is demonstrated through restraint, dialogue, and commitment to the rule of law for the greater good.

We trust that the House will heed this appeal in the spirit of patriotism and democracy.

Thank you for your attention to this critical matter.

Signed :

  1. HON. USMAN BUHARI ALI GWANDU, Ph.D
    National Convener
    +2348067831800
  2. COMRADE AD DOGO
    Secretary-General
    +2348120104666

NiMet Secures Approval For Updated Conditions Of Service

Emmanuel Daudu

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has secured formal approval for its revised Conditions of Service, marking a major milestone in the Agency’s ongoing institutional reform and commitment to staff welfare and operational efficiency.

The comprehensive review, recently concluded by NiMet, was the product of sustained collaboration between the Agency’s management and recognised staff unions.

Through extensive consultations and constructive dialogue, both sides worked together to develop a framework that responds to key issues affecting staff welfare, career progression, professionalism, and overall institutional effectiveness.

The updated Conditions of Service received the backing of the current administration and were successfully processed through the appropriate approval channels. Regulatory clearances were granted by the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development and the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF), alongside other relevant statutory bodies, formally validating the new framework for implementation.

Under the revised provisions, clearer guidelines have been established for appointments, promotions, career advancement, and disciplinary procedures.

The review also
strengthens staff welfare by enhancing leave entitlements, promoting work-life balance, and standardising procedures to ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability in line with Federal Civil Service rules and global best practices.

NiMet management noted that the updated Conditions of Service are expected to boost staff morale and motivation, leading to improved productivity and more efficient service delivery across the Agency.

The reform further reflects NiMet’s determination to strengthen human capital development and provide a supportive work environment for its workforce.

Staff of the Agency have been encouraged to familiarise themselves with the revised Conditions of Service, which now serves as a comprehensive guide to their rights, responsibilities, and career growth within NiMet.

The Agency reaffirmed its commitment to continuous institutional reforms aimed at enhancing efficiency, staff welfare, and excellence in service delivery, in line with its mandate to provide timely and reliable weather and climate information critical to national safety and socio-economic development.

Humanitarian Affairs Ministry Reaffirms Support for Social Work Education at Emene Matriculation

Emmanuel Daudu

The Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening social work education in Nigeria, as the Federal School of Social Work, Emene, Enugu State, held its 5th Matriculation Ceremony for the 2024/2025 academic session.

The ceremony, which took place on Thursday, January 8, 2026, marked the formal admission of new students into the institution and underscored the growing importance of social work in addressing Nigeria’s social and developmental challenges.

Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, emphasized the critical role of social workers in tackling issues such as poverty, inequality and social injustice.

Represented by the Director of the Social Development Department, Mr. Valentine Ezulu, the Permanent Secretary noted that investing in social work education is a direct investment in the nation’s future.
“As we gather here today, we are reminded of the critical role social workers play in addressing the complex challenges facing our nation,” he said, adding that the Ministry remains committed to supporting the Federal School of Social Work, Emene, in producing highly skilled professionals capable of contributing meaningfully to national development.

Earlier, in his welcome address, the Provost of the School, Mr. Chris Ajibola, highlighted the relevance of social work to Nigeria’s development and assured students of the institution’s dedication to their academic and professional growth.

Delivering the matriculation lecture, the Guest Speaker, Prof. Ndidi Ozofor, described social work practice in Nigeria as an uphill task, largely due to a shortage of professional social workers and persistent societal challenges.

He referenced Decree No. 12 of 1974, which formally established social welfare services and social development programmes in Nigeria, and stressed the need to equip students with the requisite skills and knowledge to navigate the realities of the profession.

Also speaking at the event, the representative of the paramount ruler of the host community, Chief Aneke Jerome, commended the institution for promoting social work education and pledged the continued support of the community.

A representative of the matriculating students, speaking on behalf of his colleagues, appealed to the school authorities to provide an enabling environment for effective learning.

He identified areas requiring attention, including infrastructure maintenance, payment of staff salaries, utilities, publicity and awareness, as well as students’ representation at national and international levels.

The high point of the ceremony was the administration of the oath of allegiance, during which the new students pledged to abide by the rules and regulations of the institution and uphold the core values of the social work profession in service to national development.

In his closing remarks, an Assistant Director in the Ministry’s Social Development Department, Mr. Akin Alesinloye, expressed confidence in the future impact of the students.

He stated that the graduates of the Federal School of Social Work, Emene, would go on to make significant contributions to the lives of Nigerians and the overall development of the country.

The matriculation ceremony, which featured a procession of academic staff and students led by the Registrar and the Provost, attracted dignitaries from government, the host community and other stakeholders.

The Ministry congratulated the students and the institution, expressing optimism about their role in advancing social development in Nigeria.

Troops Smash Suicide Bombing Network, Seize Terror Logistics In Adamawa

Maryam Aminu

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have dealt a major blow to terrorist activities in Adamawa State, dismantling a suspected suicide bombing network and intercepting large volumes of logistics believed to be destined for terrorist operations.

The breakthrough followed intensified intelligence-led cordon-and-search operations targeting those behind the Gamboru Market Mosque suicide bombing.

Acting on sustained surveillance, OPHK troops, in the early hours of January 5, 2026, stormed the Yan Lemo area of Mubi South Local Government Area, where eight suspects were arrested.
Among those apprehended were two key suspects identified as principal facilitators within the suicide bombing network. A search of their residence yielded cash, mobile phones, identification documents, ATM cards, jewellery and other personal effects, all of which are now undergoing forensic examination to aid ongoing investigations.

Military sources disclosed that during preliminary identification procedures, a suspect already in custody positively identified the two principal suspects as suppliers of materials used in assembling the Improvised Explosive Device (IED). Other occupants of the residence were also found to have links to the terror network.

All the suspects are currently in military custody, undergoing detailed interrogation to extract further intelligence before being handed over for extended investigation.

In a related operation, OPHK troops on January 4, 2026, intercepted a large cache of suspected terrorists’ logistics at Mayo Nguli in Maiha Local Government Area of the state. The troops seized 45 jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), amounting to about 1,125 litres, believed to have been smuggled to support terrorist operations.

The suppliers reportedly fled on sighting the troops, abandoning the petroleum products, which have since been taken into military custody. The operation was carried out without any casualties.

The military said the twin operations underscore OPHK’s determination to dismantle terrorist cells, disrupt their supply chains and prevent future attacks across the North East. The task force also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue to support security agencies with timely information, noting that public cooperation remains vital to sustaining peace in the region.

34 Artillery Brigade Celebrates WASA 2025, Hails Troops’ Dedication And Professionalism

Emmanuel Daudu

The Headquarters 34 Artillery Brigade of the Nigerian Army on January 3, 2025, held the West African Social Activities (WASA) 2025 at the Obinze Barracks Parade Ground in Imo State, celebrating troop cohesion, cultural integration and professional excellence.

Speaking at the colourful ceremony, the Special Guest of Honour, Air Commodore D.E. Bello, Commander 511 Quick Response Group (QRG), Owerri, described the Nigerian Army as a strong unifying institution that brings together people of diverse cultures and backgrounds in service to the nation. He noted that the cultural displays showcased during the event underscored the Army’s role in fostering unity and shared national purpose.

Air Commodore Bello charged officers and soldiers of the Brigade to remain disciplined, loyal and committed to their constitutional responsibilities, stressing that professionalism and dedication remain critical to operational effectiveness. He urged troops to continue to uphold the core values of the Nigerian Army, including respect for civil authority and excellence in service.

Earlier, in his welcome address, the Commander, 34 Artillery Brigade and Land Component Commander, Operation UDOKA, Major General I.M. Abbas, explained that WASA is an annual Nigerian Army tradition marking the end of training activities while promoting unity, cultural integration and stronger civil–military relations.

Major General Abbas recalled that the Nigerian Army traces its roots to the West African Frontier Force (WAFF) of the early 1900s, whose gallantry in major campaigns, including the First World War, earned them recognition and the privilege of celebrating their diverse cultural heritage. He said the WASA celebration provides a platform for officers, soldiers, their families and host communities to interact and deepen mutual understanding.

He further noted that in line with the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy of building a professional, adaptable, combat-ready and resilient force, the 34 Artillery Brigade has remained actively engaged in addressing contemporary security challenges, with sustained support from families and stakeholders.

The Brigade Commander expressed appreciation to the Imo State Government, the General Officer Commanding 82 Division and Commander Joint Task Force South East, Operation UDO KA, Major General O.A. Fadairo, as well as traditional rulers and community leaders for their collaboration, which he described as vital to sustaining troop morale and enhancing operational effectiveness within the Brigade’s Area of Responsibility.

Dignitaries at the event included representatives of the Imo State Government, sister security agencies, His Royal Highness Dr. E.C. Okeke, the Eze Imo, and Nigerian football legend Nwankwo Kanu, popularly known as Papilo, among other distinguished guests.
Highlights of the celebration included the presentation of souvenirs, the ceremonial Beating of the Retreat and the lighting of the bonfire, which marked the climax of WASA 2025.

Intelligence-Led Raid: Operation Whirl Stroke Troops Recover Arms Cache, Deal Blow To Criminal Syndicates In Taraba

Emmanuel Daudu

Troops of Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS) have recorded a significant operational success following a well-coordinated, intelligence-driven raid that led to the recovery of a large cache of arms and ammunition in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State.

The operation, carried out on January 4, 2026, was launched after troops received actionable intelligence on the movement of an associate linked to a notorious criminal kingpin, identified as John Ngata. Acting swiftly, OPWS troops deployed from Zaki-Biam mounted a snap roadblock along the suspected route, where the suspect was intercepted without resistance.


During preliminary interrogation, the suspect reportedly cooperated with troops and led them to a concealed armoury belonging to the criminal network at Amadu Village in Takum LGA. A follow-up search of the location resulted in the recovery of a substantial cache of weapons, including 13 AK-47 rifles, 39 AK-47 magazines, 690 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition and four hand grenades.

Military sources confirmed that the armoury was professionally destroyed after the recovery to prevent further use by criminal elements, after which the troops safely withdrew to their base.

Commending the operation, the Force Commander, Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, praised the troops for their professionalism, swift response and effective utilisation of intelligence, noting that the operation had successfully disrupted a criminal supply chain.

Major General Gara reiterated his commitment to sustaining high troop morale through improved welfare, logistics support and enhanced operational readiness.

He also expressed appreciation to members of the public for their continued cooperation and provision of credible intelligence, describing community support as a critical factor in the ongoing fight against criminality within the Joint Operations Area.

The Force Commander urged residents to sustain the flow of timely and actionable information to security agencies, assuring them of confidentiality and prompt response.
He reaffirmed OPWS’ resolve to ensure peace, stability and the protection of lives and property across its area of responsibility.

Major General Gara further thanked the Chief of Defence Staff for his strategic guidance and the Service Chiefs for their sustained support to Operation WHIRL STROKE.

Minaret University Ikirun celebrates their Pioneer Dean, UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu as World Record Holder

Minaret University Ikirun Nigeria celebrate Their Pioneer Dean of Faculty of Science and Computing as World Record Holder The First African UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu as His Name has entered Noble Book of World Records

Who is Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu?
Prof. Sir Bashiru Aremu is a world-acclaimed distinguished professor of Computer Science and Information Technology known for his extensive contributions to higher education, research, and international collaboration. He holds numerous academic and leadership positions globally and is recognized as the First African UNESCO Laureate and Pioneer Dean Faculty of Science and Computing of Minaret University Ikirun Nigeria

Key Positions and Affiliations
Prof. Aremu has held significant roles including:
Chairman Board of Trustees of Kings and Queens Medical University College Ghana,.
Africa Chairman Board of Trustees of Unity of Nations Action for Climate Change Council UNACCC an official Partner of United Nations and other organizations worldwide, World Grand President of the International Chartered World Learned Society. He also serves as Global Secretary of the World Sustainable Development Goals Organization, an official partner of the United Nations. Additionally, he is a Research Professor and Deputy Director General for Africa at the International Biographical Centre in Cambridge, England, and Vice President of International Affairs at institutions in the USA and Cambodia.
He has Contributions to Research and Education
His pioneering research in computer science and IT, including areas like biometrics and e-business, has gained international recognition. Prof. Aremu has authored and edited numerous academic publications and serves on editorial boards of international journals. He is also known for mentoring students who have gone on to achieve significant academic positions. Furthermore, he has been involved in facilitating the accreditation of university programs across different regions, contributing to quality standards in higher education.
Awards and Global Recognition
Prof. Aremu has received extensive recognition for his work, including being the First African UNESCO Laureate, an award for outstanding creative and intellectual achievement, recognized by the UNESCO Centre Central and South America. He has also received the World Acclaimed Distinguished Professor Emeritus Award from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and other institutions. His accolades include the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award in thee USA and fellowships from the Royal Society for the Arts, Manufacturers & Commerce (RSA), UK, and the British Computer Society, England. He has also been inducted into the Noble Book of World Records for his contributions.
Prof. Sir Bashiru Aremu is a frequent speaker at global events, sharing his expertise on innovative education and international collaboration

About the Noble Book of World Record
The Noble Book of World Records (or Noble World Records – NWR) is an annual publication documenting human and natural achievements, similar to Guinness World Record, focusing on diverse fields like science, arts, and sports, operating under the International Non-Olympic Committee (INOC) and published yearly around International Women’s Day. It’s a global platform to recognize extraordinary performances, offering official record-setting with specific guidelines and promotion for individuals and organizations.

Key Aspects:

Publisher: The Nobel World Records (NWR), an organization with operations worldwide an official partner of United Nations Environmental Programmes and other organizations world-wide .
Content: Documents records in education, literature, agriculture, medicine, business, sports, nature, and adventure.
Mission: To encourage talent and document achievements, emphasizing admired human qualities.
Publication: An annual book (ISBN registered) released on March 8th, with digital versions available.
Ethics: Has policies against harmful or unethical records (e.g., involving animal harm, excessive eating).
In essence, it’s a competing record-keeping body to Guinness World Records, focusing on ethical recognition of diverse world achievements

Kogi Elders’ Forum Urges FG to Confirm FTH Lokoja Acting CMD, Dr. Ojochide Sunday Ebune, Citing Significant Gains in Six Months

    The Kogi Elders’ Forum has called on the Federal Government to confirm the Acting Chief Medical Director of the Federal Teaching Hospital, Lokoja, Dr. Ojochide Sunday Ebune, noting his notable achievements within a short period. The call was made during an advocacy visit to the hospital led by the Forum’s Chairman, Chief J. A. N. Elukpo, Esq., PhD, alongside other members.

    Chief Elukpo said the Forum has observed “a renewed sense of purpose and direction” at FTH Lokoja over the past six months under Dr. Ebune’s leadership. He commended the Acting CMD’s vision to build “a reputable institution that is staff‑centric and patient‑focused, delivering quality services, training, and research,” and praised his five core policy thrusts of maintaining uninterrupted services, minimizing redundancy, strengthening operational efficiency, adopting data‑driven decision‑making, and going digital and deploying renewable energy solutions.

    The Forum highlighted concrete improvements recorded in the period, including restoring calm and order in the institution, reforms that have enhanced emergency care and response, and upgrades to infrastructure such as solar installations and power backup systems. It noted a renewed prioritization of staff welfare, training, and professional development; enhanced diagnostic capacity with the introduction of a CT scan centre; improved laboratory and radiology services with sustained availability of critical reagents and consumables; and strengthened dialysis services that have increased access to life‑saving treatment.

    They further acknowledged the re‑accreditation of training departments for residency programmes and the increase in internship slots, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda for healthcare, and commended the supportive posture of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo towards improving the health system.

    “In light of these gains, we urge the Federal Government to confirm Dr. Ojochide Sunday Ebune as substantive CMD so that these reforms can be consolidated and expanded for the benefit of Kogi State and the nation,” Chief Elukpo stated.
    Responding, Dr. Ebune who thanked the Elders forum for the visit and kind words reaffirmed a vision to lead and create a reputable, staff‑centric institution that delivers patient‑focused quality services, training, and research. He said the hospital is aligning and mobilising human and material resources within and outside the facility, while leveraging existing and emerging information and communication technologies to improve outcomes and efficiency.

    He explained that the vision is guided by five core policy thrusts: ensuring no disruption of services; minimising redundancy in human and material resources; adopting protocols to enhance system profitability and sustainability; embedding data‑driven decision‑making; and accelerating the transition to renewable energy and digital operations.

    Reporting on interventions to date, the Acting CMD highlighted active engagement with stakeholders and union leaders to restore calm, order, and peace in the institution; inspiring top management and departmental heads to align with the hospital’s mandate; major reforms in emergency care and theatre services; steps to reduce stock‑outs of medicines and critical consumables; creation of back‑up systems and an emergency response fund to guarantee uninterrupted services; and donor‑supported installation of solar and power‑backup systems for emergency and operating theatre areas.

    He added that orientation and training for new staff and interns have been institutionalised; staff and client welfare have been prioritised; ease of access to care has improved; and laboratory and radiological services have been strengthened with sustained availability of critical reagents and consumables. Dialysis services have been enhanced, and innovative service packages have boosted internally generated revenue, enabling more timely payments to suppliers and contractors.

    In their separate remarks, Elder Seyi a retired first Auditor General of Kogi State, Dr. Victor Ibrahim and Hon. Mrs. Gloria Ategbe commended the Acting CMD for restoring efficient service delivery in the Teaching Hospital, urging him to sustain the tempo.
    In a vote of thanks, the deputy CMAC Dr. Patricia Medupin described the visit of the Chairman and members of the kogi state Elders’ forum as a morale booster and a beautiful way to end the year 2025.
    She thanked the forum for being a pillar of support to the Teaching Hospital, urging kogites to support the growth of the hospital.