Msgr. Prof. Obiora Ike attended the unveiling of the refurbished Female Medical Ward at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Ituku-Ozalla, Enugu State, on 27th November 2024. The renovation, carried out in honour of the late Prince Donatus and Ezinne Lolo Lucy Onodugo, was funded by their children, who adopted the ward and transformed it with new hospital beds, bedside cabinets, drip stands, curtains for privacy, televisions, seating for visitors, and other essential medical and comfort facilities.
The ceremony, held at 10 am, was graced by UNTH staff and management. Professor Obinna Onodugo, the hospital’s Chief Medical Director (CMD), spearheaded the initiative, encouraging his family members to contribute to improving the hospital’s infrastructure. Their collective effort brought the project to fruition, showcasing a model of community-driven development.
Msgr. Ike, known for his leadership as the Founder and Director of the Catholic Institute for Development, Justice, and Peace (CIDJAP), commended the Onodugo family for their generosity. He noted that their action serves as a powerful example of how private individuals can complement government efforts to enhance healthcare facilities.
In his address, Msgr. Ike emphasised the importance of maintaining the ward’s new facilities. He urged the hospital staff, especially nurses, to ensure proper care of the equipment so the upgrades continue to benefit patients.
The event also served as a call to action for other individuals and organisations. Msgr. Ike encouraged people of goodwill to adopt and renovate additional wards at UNTH, highlighting the significant impact such initiatives can have on the quality of healthcare services.
Msgr. Ike’s dedication to community development and social justice through CIDJAP has consistently inspired similar transformative efforts. CIDJAP’s longstanding commitment to health, education, and social welfare aligns with the values demonstrated by the Onodugo family’s initiative.
The unveiling was a celebration of philanthropy, collaboration, and hope for improved healthcare delivery in Enugu State, marking a milestone in the history of UNTH and setting a precedent for future partnerships between individuals and institutions.
