The University of Abuja Teaching Hospital has commended and rewarded some members of staff for their outstanding dedication towards excellence in the discharge of their duties.

Bob Ukonu, the hospital’s acting chief medical director, presented the commendation at the 2025 UATH Annual Staff and Corporate Awards in Gwagwalada on Monday.

Mr Ukonu said that their commitment had positioned the hospital to compete favourably with leading health institutions in Nigeria and beyond.

He said that the ceremony, which had become a tradition, was instituted in 2017 to recognise excellence, diligence and selfless service towards humanity. He said that the award ceremony had continued to improve over the years to ensure that only deserving staff were honoured.

According to him, the awardees had gone the extra mile in caring for patients and strengthening hospital management, sometimes at their own risk.

Mr Ukonu said the award was meant to encourage the hard work of the winners and to encourage others to put in their best in the discharge of their duties towards saving lives. He recognised the best staff member of the year, Nurse Usman Mariam, describing her as someone whose dedication stood out throughout her duties.

He also praised the labour ward unit, which emerged as the winner for its special performance, adding that their efforts had contributed significantly to improved patient outcomes, particularly in maternal health.

He said that the award initiative was also meant to motivate staff, stressing that consistent hard work could earn them recognition again in subsequent years. He urged staff to remain committed despite the challenges facing the hospital, noting that the management considered it important to celebrate excellence and dedication.

The board chairman of UATH, Ikechukwu Odikpo, appreciated the members of staff for their dedication, resilience, and collective spirit, which have carried the hospital forward. He said that the unit could now produce over 14 items, including morphine, adding that they are looking forward to making it a separate unit.

He said the hospital would set up a marketing unit to sell to the outside world as well. Mr Odikpo said these would help improve and grow the hospital’s internally generated revenue.

According to him, in 2026, the hospital will launch a programme called ‘Conquer Sudden Death’, which will educate Nigerians on understanding their bodies and health status. He said that, under the Public-Private Partnership, the hospital was willing to partner with Nigerians to invest in the hospital.

(NAN)