The Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo (FUHSO), and the Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital (ISTH) in Edo State have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at combating infectious diseases in Nigeria.
The announcement was made by Mr. James Onogwu, the Public Relations Officer of FUHSO, in a statement issued on Wednesday in Makurdi.
The MoU, signed in Otukpo, is part of a broader initiative to transform the healthcare landscape in Nigeria by enhancing medical education, research, and response strategies for infectious diseases, including Lassa fever and other emerging pathogens.
At the signing ceremony, Prof. Stephen Abah, the Acting Vice Chancellor of FUHSO, emphasized the significance of this partnership, stating, “This collaboration is not just about sharing resources; it’s about creating a legacy, and together, we will train world-class professionals, pioneer groundbreaking research, and set new standards for medical excellence in Africa.”
He further noted that the partnership reflects Nigeria’s commitment to developing homegrown solutions for global health challenges and aligns with FUHSO’s vision to redefine healthcare paradigms.
Prof. Reuben Eifediyi, Chief Medical Director of ISTH, underscored the critical nature of the collaboration, asserting, “By uniting FUHSO’s academic prowess with ISTH’s clinical experience, we are building an unbreakable shield for Nigeria in health care delivery.”
The key components of the partnership will focus on joint training programs to enhance the skills of healthcare workers, potentially offering dual certifications in specialized fields.
Additionally, the collaboration will include research on viral pathogens, leveraging ISTH’s expertise in Lassa fever management alongside FUHSO’s academic rigor.
The institutions plan to share laboratory infrastructure to improve Nigeria’s pandemic preparedness and diagnostic capabilities. The partnership also aims to foster academic innovation, including the development of accredited diplomas and certificates in infectious disease management and public health.
The MoU signing was attended by notable medical scholars, including FUHSO’s founding Vice Chancellor, Prof. Innocent Ujah, former acting pro-chancellor Prof. John Idoko, and the immediate past provost of the College of Medicine at FUHSO, Prof. Oladapo Shittu, among other senior management representatives from both institutions.
