29/07/2026
RSUTH CMD, PROF. ALIKOR UNVEILS DEPARTMENT OF CARDIOLOGY, CARDIOLOGY WARDS AND ADVANCED CARDIAC IMAGING SERVICES
PORT HARCOURT, Nigeria – The Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH) on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, marked a major milestone in cardiovascular healthcare with the unveiling of its Department of Cardiology, the official opening of Cardiology Wards, and the launch of two advanced cardiac imaging services: CT Coronary Angiography (CTCA) and Speckle Tracking Echocardiography during the hospital’s Cardiology Day 2026 celebration.
Speaking at the event, the Chief Medical Director of RSUTH, Prof. Chizindu A. Alikor, described the occasion as another significant step in the hospital’s commitment to delivering world-class cardiovascular care.
The Head of the Department of Cardiology, Dr. Boma Oyan, traced the evolution of cardiology services at RSUTH to the hospital’s origins in 1925, when it was established as a colonial-era nursing home. She noted that the department is now staffed by consultant cardiologists, resident doctors, specialist nurses and other healthcare professionals dedicated to comprehensive cardiovascular care.
Dr. Oyan revealed that cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of mortality globally and locally. She appealed for further investment in advanced cardiovascular infrastructure to improve patient outcomes and expand specialist services.
A major highlight of the event was an educational lecture delivered by Dr. Emmanuel Ovundah Nyeche, Consultant Cardiologist and Head of the Department of Nuclear Medicine, who presented an overview of the clinical applications of Speckle Tracking Echocardiography and CT Coronary Angiography in modern cardiovascular diagnosis and patient management.
The ceremony attracted members of RSUTH management, healthcare professionals and distinguished guests from across the medical community. Goodwill messages were delivered by the Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Rivers State, Dr. (Prof.) Annabel Ureh Oparaodu; the Chief Medical Director of Palmars Hospital Ltd., Dr. Okey Ibeabuchi; the “Father of Cardiologists in Rivers State Government Service,” Dr. Goodleave N. Owhonda; the Chairman of MDCAN-RSGHs, Dr. Woroma Wonodi; the representative of the Executive Secretary of RIVCHIPP, Dr. Juliet Aleme; the Chairperson of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives, RSUTH Chapter, Nurse Eucharia Obua; former Medical Director of BMSH, Dr. Paul Kua; and Prof. Jack Omodu. The Dean, of Faculty of Clinical Sciences, Prof A ChapJumbo.
In his closing remarks, Prof. Alikor reaffirmed the hospital’s commitment to providing the highest standard of care for the people of Rivers State and expressed appreciation to the Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS, for his continued support of the healthcare sector.
The ceremony concluded with a guided tour of the newly established Department of Cardiology and its facilities.