Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital Coouth Amaku

COOUTH CMD RECEIVES THE ASHIA EXECUTIVE SECRETARY IN A COURTESY VISIT

The Chief Medical Director of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital Amaku,Awka Dr. Maureen Uche Umeakuewulu, on Tuesday 16th June 2026, received the executive secretary of Anambra Health Insurance Agency Dr. Augustine Ezeka and his team on a courtesy visit The visit was in line with the partnership that exists between the hospital and ASHIA. DR Ezeka thanked CMD for finding time to receive them even within the short notice. Dr Ezeka made it known to the CMD that he has successfully pushed in 4,000 clients to COOUTH as their medical facility centre, and also 2 staff from ASHIA as desk officers. He noted that more staff will be posted to COOUTH from ASHIA to enable a smooth service delivery.
The CMD, in her response, thanked the Executive Secretary for the level of confidence the body had in COOUTH by pushing more clients to the existing ones to the hospital. The CMD stressed her plans to make COOUTH belong to a world-class medical facility ranging from staff attitude to work, turn around time,
infrastructural development, medical equipments as well as full digitalisation of medical records, accounts, pharmacy, and laboratory services.
The CMD also highlighted the numerous areas where the institution is making innovative moves for better services. These areas include:
abolishing the file/card system of documentation,
introduction of smart cards for payment purposes,
merging of NHIS/ASHIA pharmacy,
giving the various wards a face lift,
introduction of private/ VIP clinic.
The CMD stated that all these are already in motion and will be achieved in no distant time. She also said that these and many other milestones can be achieved with the state government support.
Dr. Maureen thanked the governor of the state, Prf Charles Chukwuma Soludo, whom she described as a progressive governor for his tireless efforts towards ensuring that this institution is placed to standard.
The Executive Secretary, who was overwhelmed, says that the institution is a worthy partner who will ultimately deliver on the task that has been given to it and promised more clients to the institution.
The chairman Medical Advisory Committee Dr. Nnaemeka Umedum gave a vote of thanks, expressing his optimism that the partnership between the two organizations will be a thing of great benefit to the Anambra people and beyond. He also thanked the Executive Secretary for the visit and assured him of our unwavering support to the solution agenda.
The CMD received the Executive Secretary with her management team, which includes
Dr Nnaemeka Umedum, Chairman Medical Advisory Committee, Dr Ifeoma Njelita, Deputy chairman medical advisory Committee, Mr Wilson Ezeilo, Head of Accounts. Mrs Angela Nebo, Head of nursing services, Mrs Chioma Ibekie, Head of Administration, Agbai Henrietta N. Public Relations Officer, Mrs Uju Ejiofor, Auditor, among others.

Public Relations Office, COOUTH.

DR. UMEAKUEWULU REAFFIRMS COOUTH'S COMMITMENT TO EFFECTIVE REFERRAL SYSTEM AT SEXUAL VIOLENCE RESPONSE PROGRAMME

The Chief Medical Director of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital (COOUTH), Amaku, Awka, Dr. Maureen Uche Umeakuewulu, was represented by the Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee (CMAC), Dr. Nnaemeka Umedum, and the Deputy Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee (DCMAC), Dr. Ifeoma Njelita, at a stakeholders' engagement programme organized by Doctors Without Borders (MSF) on Wednesday, 3rd June 2026. The programme focused on strengthening response services for survivors of sexual violence and enhancing collaboration among healthcare providers and relevant stakeholders in the management of gender-based violence cases.

The event attracted key stakeholders in the health sector, including the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Anambra State Ministry of Health. Participants deliberated on strategies for improving access to quality healthcare, psychosocial support, and referral services for survivors of sexual abuse, while emphasizing the need for stronger institutional partnerships to ensure comprehensive care for victims.

Speaking on behalf of the CMD, Dr. Umedum commended Doctors Without Borders (MSF) for its continued intervention in strengthening healthcare systems and supporting vulnerable populations. He reiterated the commitment of COOUTH to partnering with primary and secondary healthcare facilities across Anambra State and beyond in order to build a strong and efficient referral system. He specifically expressed the readiness of the Teaching Hospital to collaborate with Primary Health Centre, Okpuno, and other healthcare institutions involved in the management of sexually abused victims, noting that prompt referral and access to specialist care are essential to achieving better outcomes for survivors.

Dr. Umedum further stated that under the leadership of Dr. Maureen Uche Umeakuewulu, COOUTH remains focused on delivering quality, patient-centred healthcare services and strengthening collaborative networks within the health sector. According to him, the Teaching Hospital is steadily advancing towards its vision of becoming a global centre of medical excellence, where specialized care, professional expertise, and compassionate service delivery are readily available to the people of Anambra State and beyond.

Public Relations Office
COOUTH Amaku, Awka

PUBLIC APPEAL FOR IDENTIFICATION OF AN UNKNOWN ACCIDENT VICTIM

The Management of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital (COOUTH), Amaku, Awka, wishes to appeal to members of the public to assist in identifying an unknown male accident victim who was brought to the hospital following a tragic road traffic accident.

The victim was reportedly knocked down by a trailer at the UNIZIK Junction, Awka, at approximately 6:00 p.m. on Friday 29th May 2026. He was promptly rescued by concerned good Samaritans who rushed him to the Accident and Emergency (A&E) Department of COOUTH for urgent medical attention.

Upon arrival at the hospital, the victim was critically ill and presented with multiple life-threatening injuries. Clinical assessment by the attending medical team revealed severe injuries.

Hospital personnel immediately commenced emergency resuscitative and life-saving interventions.

Despite the tireless efforts of the medical team to stabilize and save his life, the victim succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at approximately 7:24 p.m.same day.

At the time of presentation and as of the time of this publication, no means of identification was found on the deceased. He was observed to be an adult male with dreadlocks and an unkempt appearance. No relatives, friends, or acquaintances have come forward to identify or claim him, and the hospital has not been able to obtain any information regarding his identity, place of residence, or next of kin.

Members of the public who may recognize the deceased from the description provided, or who may have any information regarding his identity, family, or place of residence, are kindly urged to contact the hospital management or the nearest police station as soon as possible.

Please share this information widely. Your assistance may help reunite this deceased victim with his loved ones and enable appropriate arrangements to be made.

Public Relations Office
COOUTH Amaku, Awka (08039271747)

DR. UMEAKUEWULU ATTENDS FLAG-OFF OF LENACAPAVIR HIV PREVENTION PROGRAMME AT COOUTH

The Chief Medical Director of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital (COOUTH), Amaku, Awka, Dr. Maureen Uche Umeakuewulu, on Friday, 22nd May 2026, attended the official flag-off ceremony of Lenacapavir (LEN PrEP), a long-acting injectable for HIV prevention, held at the NMA Hall, COOUTH, Amaku, Awka. The programme, organized by the Anambra State Ministry of Health and its partners, marked a significant step in the state’s efforts to strengthen HIV prevention and expand access to innovative healthcare interventions for the people of Anambra State.

The event brought together key stakeholders in the health sector, who highlighted the importance of the newly introduced Lenacapavir injection as a breakthrough in HIV prevention. The long-acting injectable pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), administered twice yearly, is expected to significantly reduce the risk of HIV infection among eligible individuals while improving adherence to preventive treatment. Stakeholders noted that the initiative aligns with national and global efforts aimed at ending the HIV/AIDS epidemic and improving public health outcomes.

Speaking at the event, participants emphasized the need for continuous public awareness, early testing, and access to preventive healthcare services. COOUTH was identified as one of the designated centres for the administration of the HIV prevention injection, further underscoring the Teaching Hospital’s growing role in specialized healthcare delivery, disease prevention, and public health interventions within the state.

Dr. Umeakuewulu commended the Anambra State Government under the leadership of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, and the Ministry of Health for embracing innovative healthcare solutions that improve the wellbeing of the people. She noted that the introduction of Lenacapavir represents a major advancement in the fight against HIV/AIDS and aligns with the broader vision of making quality healthcare accessible to all. The CMD reaffirmed COOUTH’s commitment to supporting public health initiatives and ensuring that the people of Anambra State and beyond continue to benefit from world-class healthcare services and preventive medical interventions.

Public Relations Office
COOUTH Amaku, Awka

The CMD COOUTH (Dr Maureen Uche Umeakuewulu) wishes all the Muslim faithful a happy celebration 🍾

DR. UMEAKUEWULU PAYS CONGRATULATORY VISIT TO COMMISSIONER FOR HEALTH, SEEKS STRONGER COLLABORATION FOR COOUTH

The Chief Medical Director of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital (COOUTH), Amaku, Awka, Dr. Maureen Uche Umeakuewulu, on Wednesday, 20th May 2026, paid a courtesy and congratulatory visit to the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Anambra State, Dr. Afam Obidike, following his well-deserved reappointment by the Executive Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR. The visit was aimed at appreciating the Commissioner for his achievements during his first tenure and strengthening collaboration between the Ministry of Health and COOUTH towards improved healthcare delivery for the people of Anambra and beyond.

The CMD was accompanied by members of the COOUTH management team, including the Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee (CMAC), Dr. Nnaemeka Umedum; Deputy CMAC, Dr. Ifeoma Njelita; Head of Administration, Mrs. Chioma Ibekie; Head of Accounts, Mr. Wilson Ezeilo; Head of Nursing Services, Mrs. Angela Nebo; Public Relations Officer, Agbai Henrietta; and Head of Internal Audit, Mrs. Uju Ejiofor, among others. The management team warmly congratulated the Commissioner and appreciated his support and commitment toward repositioning the health sector in Anambra State.

Speaking during the visit, Dr. Umeakuewulu appreciated the Governor for bringing her home to contribute to the healthcare development of her people after many years of medical practice outside the state. She further thanked the Governor for the massive investments in COOUTH, especially the recently completed Trauma Centre awaiting commissioning, which, according to her, has long been anticipated in the South-East region. She also commended the administration for the beautification of the hospital environment, including the gigantic entrance gate, gardens, rehabilitation of internal roads, and procurement of modern medical equipment that have significantly improved the outlook and functionality of the Teaching Hospital.

While congratulating the Commissioner on his reappointment, which she described as a reward for his ingenious and hardworking first tenure, Dr. Umeakuewulu presented him with a portrait of congratulations and called for sustained collaboration in critical areas such as accreditation, staff welfare, infrastructural expansion, and improved service delivery as patient intake in the hospital continues to increase. She reiterated her administration’s commitment toward transforming COOUTH into a global centre of medical excellence in line with the vision and developmental strides of the Governor. According to her, the hospital remains committed to excellence in healthcare delivery, training, and research.

In his response, the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike warmly welcomed the CMD and her management team, noting that COOUTH management was the first team to pay him a congratulatory visit since his reappointment. He appreciated the Governor for his unwavering commitment toward repositioning COOUTH as a centre of excellence and highlighted some of the achievements of the present administration in the hospital, including the recently completed Trauma Centre awaiting commissioning, beautification of the hospital environment, rehabilitation of internal roads, and procurement of modern medical equipment.

The Commissioner further called for proper staff auditing and emphasized the need to reward workers according to their productivity, commitment, and input in service delivery. He assured the management team of his dedication toward improving staff welfare and disclosed that the Governor still has more developmental plans and investments for the hospital. Dr. Obidike, therefore, called on staff to remain hardworking, disciplined, and committed to ensuring that the people of Anambra State and beyond receive the best quality healthcare services possible.

Public Relations Office
COOUTH Amaku, Awka

DR. UMEAKUEWULU PAYS COURTESY VISIT TO COMMISSIONER OF POLICE, SEEKS STRONGER SECURITY COLLABORATION

The Chief Medical Director of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital (COOUTH), Amaku, Awka, Dr. Maureen Uche Umeakuewulu, on Tuesday, 19th May 2026, paid a courtesy visit to the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, PSC, for familiarisation and further strengthening of the existing partnership between the Teaching Hospital and the Police Command. The CMD was accompanied by members of her management team, including the Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee (CMAC), Dr. Nnaemeka Umedum; Deputy CMAC, Dr. Ifeoma Njelita; Head of Administration, Mrs. Chioma Ibekie; Public Relations Officer, Agbai Henrietta; and Head of Internal Audit, Mrs. Uju Ejiofor, among others.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, PSC, warmly received the CMD alongside members of his management team, including DCP Ezekiel Ibrahim, Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, and ACP Oruruo Harrison, Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations. The meeting provided an opportunity for both institutions to discuss areas of mutual collaboration, particularly in strengthening security around the hospital environment and ensuring improved safety for healthcare workers, patients, and hospital facilities.

Speaking during the visit, Dr. Umeakuewulu appreciated the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, for the opportunity to return home and contribute to the healthcare development of the state. She also thanked the Commissioner of Police for the warm reception and for the existing collaboration between the Police Command and COOUTH even before her emergence as Chief Medical Director. The CMD drew the attention of the Commissioner to areas requiring urgent collaboration, especially in strengthening security architecture within and around the hospital environment. She further appreciated the Governor, the Commissioner of Police, and other security agencies in the state for their tireless efforts in maintaining relative peace and protecting lives and property across Anambra State.

In his response, the Commissioner of Police congratulated Dr. Umeakuewulu on her appointment and appreciated the Governor of Anambra State for his unwavering commitment to improving security in the state. He assured the CMD of the readiness of the Police Command to strengthen partnership with the Teaching Hospital and promised swift action in areas requiring security collaboration with COOUTH. According to him, healthcare institutions remain critical infrastructures that must be adequately protected to ensure effective healthcare delivery and public wellbeing.

Public Relations Office
COOUTH Amaku, Awka

COOUTH CARDIOLOGY DEPARTMENT MARKS WORLD HYPERTENSION DAY, ADVOCATES EARLY DETECTION AND HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

The Department of Cardiology, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital (COOUTH), Amaku, Awka, on Monday, 18th May 2026, marked the 2026 World Hypertension Day with a health awareness programme aimed at sensitizing the public on the dangers of hypertension and the importance of early detection and proper management. The event was led by the Head of Department, Prof. Innocent Okoye, who noted that South-East Nigeria records one of the highest burdens of hypertension cases in the country, making continuous public education and preventive healthcare very essential.

During the outreach held at the Specialist Out-Patient Department (SOPD), the cardiology team educated patients on the causes and risk factors of hypertension, including excessive salt intake, unhealthy diets, obesity, stress, alcohol consumption, smoking, lack of regular exercise, and hereditary predisposition. They further highlighted complications such as stroke, heart failure, kidney disease, and sudden death, stressing that hypertension is often called a “silent killer” because it may show no obvious symptoms until serious damage has occurred. The team encouraged lifestyle modifications such as balanced diet, regular physical activity, weight control, reduced salt intake, stress management, and adherence to prescribed medications.

The department also emphasized the importance of routine blood pressure checks and regular hospital visits for early detection and proper management of the condition. Patients and members of the public were encouraged to utilize COOUTH, where specialists are available to provide expert care, guidance, and long-term management of cardiovascular diseases. According to the team, consistent monitoring and early intervention remain key to preventing complications and extending life expectancy.

The Cardiology Department reaffirmed its commitment to continuous public enlightenment and preventive cardiology, noting that community awareness remains a critical tool in reducing the growing burden of hypertension-related illnesses in the region.

Public Relations Office
COOUTH Amaku, Awka

DR. UMEAKUEWULU COMMISSIONS NEW MEDICAL WARDS AT AJAM COMMUNITY HOSPITAL, CALLS FOR GREATER INVESTMENT IN COMMUNITY HEALTHCARE

The Chief Medical Director of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital (COOUTH), Amaku, Awka, Dr. Maureen Uche Umeakuewulu, on Thursday, 14th May 2026, commissioned newly built and equipped male and female medical wards at Ajam Community Hospital, Ezinifite, constructed by the Mayor of Aguata Local Government Area, Dr. Chibueze Ofobuike. The hospital, which is an affiliate of COOUTH, was filled with dignitaries and personalities from Ezinifite, Aguata, and beyond who gathered to witness the landmark event. The CMD was warmly received by the people through the Traditional Ruler of Ezinifite, His Royal Highness, Igwe Bob Chukwuma Orji, Ezeugo II; the President General of the community, Mr. Jude Ezeobiagwu; and the Mayor of Aguata, Dr. Chibueze Ofobuike, who welcomed her on behalf of the people of Aguata.

Speaking during the event, Dr. Umeakuewulu appreciated the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, for giving her the opportunity to return home and contribute to the healthcare development of her state after decades of medical practice outside Anambra. According to her, she has never felt more fulfilled in her over two decades of medical practice than now that she is directly contributing to the wellbeing of her own people. She emphasized the critical role of community-based hospitals in reducing maternal and child mortality, noting with concern that Nigeria continues to rank among the countries with the highest maternal mortality rates in the world due largely to the poor condition of many primary and community healthcare facilities.

The CMD called on stakeholders of Ezinifite and surrounding communities to invest more in reclaiming and strengthening the hospital for the benefit of the people. She particularly appreciated members of Star United Club of Ezinifite for initiating and building the hospital, while also commending the Mayor of Aguata, Dr. Chibueze Ofobuike, for the remarkable improvements he has made in the facility, which, according to her, has opened the hospital to greater attention, growth, and future investment. Dr. Umeakuewulu assured the people that her administration would work towards ensuring twenty-four-hour healthcare delivery in the facility once the necessary infrastructure and operational support systems are fully put in place.

While cutting the tape to commission the new wards, Dr. Umeakuewulu further praised the Mayor of Aguata for his commitment to the welfare of his people and the development of communities within the Aguata Local Government Area. She described the project as a major contribution to grassroots healthcare delivery and prayed that everyone who comes into the facility would leave healthier and happier. The commissioning ceremony was marked with joy and appreciation from community members and stakeholders who described the development as a new chapter in healthcare delivery within the area.

Public Relations Office
COOUTH Amaku, Awka

DR. UMEAKUEWULU HONOURED BY COOUMSA, CHARGES MEDICAL STUDENTS ON PROFESSIONAL EXCELLENCE

The Chief Medical Director of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital (COOUTH), Amaku, Awka, Dr. Maureen Uche Umeakuewulu, was on Wednesday, 13th May 2026, honoured by the Medical Students of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University during the grand finale of the COOUMSA Health Week, Symposium, and Award Presentation 2026. The CMD delivered a keynote address titled “Medicine at the Crossroad,” where she drew the attention of the students to the nobility of the medical profession they are preparing to enter. She urged them to distinguish themselves through excellence, discipline, appearance, and attitude, noting that medical professionals must reflect confidence, compassion, and healing in both character and conduct.

Speaking further, Dr. Umeakuewulu emphasized that many of the challenges facing the medical profession are not entirely government-related but are also linked to the unwillingness of some professionals to grow and improve themselves. She encouraged the students to embrace continuous self-development and strive daily to become better versions of themselves. According to her, the future of medicine lies in dedication, competence, innovation, and personal commitment to excellence rather than the constant desire to travel abroad. She noted that many who leave the country eventually abandon medical practice, stressing that true fulfilment comes from making meaningful impact wherever one finds oneself. The CMD therefore advised the students to set clear goals for themselves and work consistently toward achieving them.

In recognition of her outstanding leadership and contributions to healthcare development, Dr. Umeakuewulu was presented with an Award of Honour and Outstanding Leadership by the CEO of SENATORCH Construction and Real Estate at the instance of the COOUMSA President, Mr. Valerian Okoye. The CMD was accompanied to the event by members of her management team, including the Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee (CMAC), Dr. Nnaemeka Umedum; Head of Administration, Mrs. Chioma Ibekie; Head of Accounts, Mr. Wilson Ezeilo; Public Relations officer; Agbai Henrietta, Head of Internal Audit, Mrs. Uju Ejiofor; and the President of the Association of Resident Doctors, Dr. Joy Okwumuo.

Public Relations Office
COOUTH Amaku, Awka