In a significant move to strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare sector, President Bola Tinubu has appointed new Chief Medical Directors (CMDs) for six Federal Government-owned hospitals across the country. The appointments, which include both new and reappointed CMDs, are aimed at enhancing service delivery and ensuring efficient management of these health institutions.
This announcement was made by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, in a statement released on Friday. He noted that the appointments were based on merit, professionalism, and the need to drive excellence in medical service delivery.
Meet the Newly Appointed CMDs
Among the appointees is Prof. Olusegun Ojo, who will now lead the Federal Teaching Hospital, Akure, Ondo State. Ojo is a seasoned medical expert with a strong track record, having previously served as the pioneer Chief Medical Director of the Ondo State Specialist Hospital. His leadership in the healthcare sector is expected to bring transformative changes to the institution.
Similarly, Prof. Yusuf Abdullahi has been reappointed as the Chief Medical Director of the Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe. His reappointment comes as a result of his exceptional performance in his first term, during which he made significant improvements in the hospital’s operations. His continued leadership is anticipated to further strengthen healthcare services in Gombe State.
Another notable appointment is Dr. Dauda Katagum, who has been confirmed as the substantive CMD of the Federal Teaching Hospital, Azare, Bauchi State. He had previously served in an acting capacity and has now been officially entrusted with leading the institution.
In Nasarawa State, Dr. Ikrama Hassan has been appointed as the CMD of the newly upgraded Federal Teaching Hospital, Lafia. A consultant physician, Hassan was previously the Medical Director of the Dalhatu Ibrahim Arab Specialist Hospital before it was elevated to a teaching hospital. His experience in hospital administration is expected to improve medical service delivery in the region.
Dr. Ali Ramat, a Consultant Orthopaedic and Spine Surgeon, has been named the CMD of the newly established National Orthopedic Hospital, Maiduguri, Borno State. Given his expertise in orthopedic and spine surgery, his leadership is expected to enhance specialized medical care in Borno and its surrounding regions.
Additionally, Dr. Haruna Shehu, a Consultant Family Physician, has been appointed as the CMD of the newly established Federal Medical Centre, Kafanchan, Kaduna State. His appointment aligns with the government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare accessibility in Kaduna State.
Effective Dates and Tinubu’s Charge to the New CMDs
The appointments, which are for a tenure of four years, will take effect from the respective dates of assumption of office. Notably, Prof. Yusuf Abdullahi’s second and final term in Gombe began on September 5, 2024, while Dr. Dauda Katagum’s tenure at the Federal University of Health Sciences Teaching Hospital, Azare, commenced on December 6, 2024.
President Tinubu congratulated the new CMDs and urged them to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, accountability, and dedication in their new roles. He emphasized the importance of their leadership in driving improved healthcare services, medical innovation, and patient care across Nigeria’s federal hospitals.
Furthermore, the President reiterated his administration’s commitment to upgrading Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure, ensuring that all citizens, regardless of location, have access to quality medical services.
With these appointments, expectations are high that the newly appointed medical leaders will rise to the challenge and contribute significantly to the growth and advancement of Nigeria’s healthcare system.
