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Challenges Facing Operations at FTH Lokoja: A Statement from the CMD
Dr. Olatunde Alabi, the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the Federal Teaching Hospital (FTH) in Lokoja, has highlighted significant challenges that hinder the operations of the tertiary health center. These challenges include a shortage of personnel and a lack of essential medical equipment, despite the presence of over 80 qualified consultants within the facility.
In a recent statement from his office, Dr. Alabi attributed the staff shortage primarily to the departure of experienced medical professionals, a trend influenced by the so-called ‘Japa Syndrome.’ This phenomenon has led some staff to leave the country for better opportunities. Additionally, he pointed out that the stringent hiring processes for new employees further complicate efforts to replace those who have left. Some individuals under contractual obligations have opted to breach their agreements in pursuit of opportunities abroad, a growing trend that has been observed.
Addressing the necessity of referring certain medical cases to other hospitals, Dr. Alabi explained that the absence of critical equipment in specialized departments is a significant factor. He reassured that the hospital is actively working to procure the necessary equipment, which would greatly reduce the need for patient referrals.
“In critical situations where essential equipment is lacking, we cannot risk a patient’s life simply because we are a tertiary health facility. It is our responsibility to refer patients to hospitals equipped to handle their needs to safeguard their health,” he stated.
Regarding concerns about the affordability of medical services at FTH Lokoja, the CMD emphasized that their fees are competitive compared to private hospitals in the area. “Our charges are more accessible, especially when considering the caliber of services we provide. Our medical personnel, including doctors and nurses, are among the best available. I challenge anyone to present evidence to the contrary,” he asserted.
While acknowledging that some staff members may exhibit laxity, Dr. Alabi affirmed that the management is committed to fostering a culture of accountability. “We are actively monitoring this trend and have instituted strict measures to address any shortcomings, including disciplinary actions against staff who fail to meet our standards.”
He urged the public to report any incidents of negligence by staff members, emphasizing that the SERVICON initiative is in place to address such issues effectively. “We will continue to uphold our standards and ensure that our patients receive the highest quality of care.”
Apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide has condemned the arrest of businesswoman Aisha Achimugu at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
Achimugu was arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
Her lawyer, Chief Chikaosolu Ojukwu, who confirmed her arrest said , “Aisha Achimugu, who arrived voluntarily into the country from London, was arrested by the EFCC around 5 a.m. on Tuesday.
‘In light of what transpired in court on Monday, my client returned based on the undertaking before the court to honour the EFCC’s invitation, but was arrested at the airport.”
Ojukwu criticised the EFCC’s action, describing it as a violation of a court order.
Reacting, the National President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike described the arrest as an affront on the judiciary.
Okwu said it was strange that someone who returned to the country in line with her own averments before the court could be whisked away in such a manner.
He stressed that, “we had thought that the EFCC has stopped such action but this manner of arrest speaks volumes.
“From every record available, Aisha Achimugu filed an affidavit in court to voluntarily report to the EFCC today, Tuesday, then appear in court tomorrow, Wednesday.
“It is then strange that having returned to the country on her own volition, the EFCC had to swoop on her at the airport despite the subsisting court order.
“This confirms our earlier fears that her trial is political and is totally unfortunate.
“We urge the EFCC to respect the sanctity of the rule of law by releasing her.”
Okwu urged the commission to resist the temptation of being used by politicians to fight perceived political enemies.
In a significant restructuring of its management, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Ltd has terminated the services of a number of senior staff members, ELANZANEWS understands.
Among those departing immediately are Bala Wunti, former chief of National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS), and Ibrahim Onoja, managing director of the Kaduna Refinery.
Also asked to leave was Lawal Sade, the chief compliance officer and former managing director of NNPC Trading.
They are believed to be very close to Mele Kyari, who was removed as group chief executive officer (GCEO) on April 2, 2025.
ELANZANEWS understands that over 200 employees have been impacted, marking the beginning of what may be a series of staff changes.
This restructuring has resulted in an increased representation of women in senior leadership roles, including the appointment of Maryam Idrisu as managing director of NNPC Trading — responsible for all crude oil transactions — and Obioma Abangwu as chief liaison officer for board matters.
TheCable further understands that the changes have been positively received by the staff.
The directors were sacked four weeks after Bayo Ojulari took over from Kyari.
Three days after he assumed office, NNPC appointed an eight-member senior management team.
News
2025/2026 Academic Session: Federal University Of Applied Sciences Kachia, Get 18 Courses Approval From NUC
By Tambaya Julius, Abuja
The National Universities Commission (NUC) has officially approved 18 full-time programmes for the Federal University of Applied Sciences Kachia (FUASK). The approval was granted by Nigeria’s National Universities Commission (NUC), positions the university as a beacon of advanced learning and practical skills development in applied sciences and technology.
The announcement was made by FUASK’s inaugural Vice-Chancellor, Professor William Qurix, via an official release issued by the University Registrar, Professor Sanusi Gambo, on Tuesday in Abuja. Professor Gambo said that the newly approved courses will commence with the 2025/2026 academic calendar.
According to the registrar the approved courses reflect a strategic response to both domestic and international workforce demands, particularly within the sectors of science, healthcare, computing, and architecture. “The introduction of these programmes will enable FUASK to equip students with the professional expertise and hands-on experience required for modern job markets” He stated.
The programmes which include:
Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery
B.Sc. Software Engineering
Doctor of Pharmacy
B.Sc. Information Technology
B.Sc. Computer Science
B.Sc. Cyber Security
B.Sc. Environmental Resource Management
B.Sc. Microbiology
B.Sc. Biotechnology
B.Sc. Anatomy
B.Sc. Physiology
Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science
Bachelor of Radiography
Bachelor of Health Information Management
Bachelor of Nursing Science (B.NSc.)
B.Sc. Architecture
B.Sc. Quantity Surveying
B.Sc. Industrial Chemistry
Speaking on the significance of the NUC approval, Professor Qurix expressed that the development marks more than just regulatory progress it is a clear indication of FUASK’s commitment to becoming a centre of excellence in applied scientific education and research.
“This achievement is a testament to our vision of delivering a modern, practice-oriented academic experience,” said Qurix. “It showcases our dedication to equipping students with innovative skills tailored to meet real-world challenges across vital sectors such as medicine, information technology, pharmacy, and environmental science.”
The Vice-Chancellor also emphasised that the approval wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering efforts of the university’s academic and administrative staff. He praised their dedication in working meticulously to ensure that FUASK met the strict standards required by the NUC for programme accreditation.