By Obianuju Azukaego

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter, has paid a courtesy visit to the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital (COOUTH), Amaku, Awka, Dr. Maureen Uche Umeakuewulu, to felicitate her on her appointment.

The delegation, led by the NMA FCT Chairman, Dr. George Ebong on September 7, expressed delight at reconnecting with “one of their own,” describing Dr. Umeakuewulu as a distinguished medical professional whose contributions to the association and the wider medical community have been impactful.

Dr. Ebong particularly commended the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, for appointing Dr. Umeakuewulu to lead the tertiary health institution.

He described the appointment as a demonstration of confidence in her professional competence and leadership capacity.

He further praised the CMD for her commitment, energy and vigour in steering the affairs of COOUTH, expressing optimism that her administration would make a lasting impact on the hospital and its development.

He also noted the significance of her appointment as the first female Chief Medical Director of COOUTH.

Responding, Dr. Umeakuewulu welcomed the delegation on behalf of the hospital management and expressed appreciation to Governor Soludo for the confidence reposed in her through the appointment.

The CMD commended the Governor’s administration for its developmental initiatives across Anambra State, particularly his Vision 2070, which she said placed strategic emphasis on transforming the healthcare sector and positioning the state for sustainable development.

Dr. Umeakuewulu expressed particular appreciation for the fully equipped Solution Trauma Centre, describing the facility as a major boost to COOUTH’s capacity to provide prompt, efficient and quality emergency and trauma care to patients.

She also highlighted some of the major milestones recorded under her administration, including the transition to electronic health records, ongoing renovation and facelift of hospital facilities, installation of oxygen piping at the Accident and Emergency Department, improvements in emergency care services, and preparations for the hospital’s recent Paediatrics accreditation exercise.

According to the CMD, the progress recorded so far was the result of the dedication of the hospital workforce, strategic leadership and sustained support from the Anambra State Government.

She reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to consolidating the gains made, improving patients’ experience and ensuring that COOUTH continued to provide efficient, compassionate and quality healthcare in line with its mandate of “Service for Health.”