Health

Ugboma’s Reappointment as UPTH CMD: the Best 2021 Christmas Gift – Eze

… Describes Act as Both Divine and Fruit of Prof’s Kindness Towards society

Published

4 years ago

December 14, 2021

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Following the reappointment of Prof. Henry Ugboma, as Chief Medical Director (CMD), University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH), by President Mohammadu Buhari, chieftain of the All Progressives Congress and erstwhile National Publicity Secretary of the defunct New People’s Democratic Party (nPDP), Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze said the President was properly advised and his decision to return Ugboma was based on good faith.

In a statement made available to media houses in Port Harcourt, Eze described Prof Ugboma’s reappointment as both divine, fruit of his kindness towards society and stands out as the best Christmas gift from President Buhari to the people of South-South region this year 2021.

Prof Ugboma has distinguished himself as a fine blend of pure leadership/administrative recipes for robust performance and bumper result, noting that his display of professional competence and administrative prowess in the last four years earned him public confidence and Presidential approval for another term.

Recalling the moribund state of UPTH prior to the time Ugboma came on board, the party chief said the absence of critical facilities and dearth of health professionals threw UPTH into the status of an institution characterised by lethargic inertness and manifest barrenness in all spheres for a period of aeons. Thus UPTH was a no-no for seekers of medical services in and around Rivers and the entire South-South region of the country.

However, within the space of four years, Ugboma changed the narrative at UPTH upon his appointment to head the institution. His trailblazing leadership revived UPTH from its comatose state into a health tourism site for Nigerians with daily acquisition and delivery of sophisticated equipment to the institution and other physical resources into its catalogue of modern facilities.

Although the rippling effects of Ugboma’s efforts at UPTH are almost always made public by the testimonies of patients whose health issues are professionally sorted out, the outbreak of the covid pandemic helped further to blow his trumpet. Safe Ugboma’s professionalism and competence in administering the affairs of UPTH, the pandemic would have been more disastrous in the South-South region, than an erupting volcano.

Having carved a niche for himself, Chief Eze said Prof. Ugboma’s reappointment is a step in the right direction as his return will provide a pedestal to consolidate on the very many gains and achievements recorded in his first four years in office.

Describing the efforts of those who are hell bent on tainting the image of Prof. Ugboma through a misunderstood concoction, the party chief said the video gives an insight to what happened during the visit of the junior Health Minister to UPTH, noting that the absence of certain equipments was the reason for the wide misunderstanding.

Eze further highlighted that the CMD in his clarification on the matter pointed out that some of those machines were technically removed to enable the management of the hospital to carry out an intensive fumigation exercise within the hospital.

Unfortunately, the store man who was responsible for the protection of the machine was not available as at the time the minister visited.

However, he assured that the machines will be installed immediately.

The fact remains that Prof Ugboma so far the administration of UPTH is concerned has demonstrated that he is very clean so the efforts to ruin his highly earned reputation by those who are surprised of what he has achieved since assuming office must surely be an exercise in futility as nothing will come out of all the evil machinations.

Chief Eze commended the Hon. Minister of Transportation, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Amaechi, the Health Minister, Ehanire and others who made the meritorious reappointment of Prof. Ugboma a success.

Congratulating the CMD on his return, Eze urged Prof. Ugboma to build on his established legacies at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, to make the institution a choice place for medical services, in line with his highly held vision for the institution.

Finally, Chief Eze commended and congratulated the CMD for successfully burying his late father in-law, an event in which most party faithful turned to APC political rally at Abua during the weekend

Health

PPC Limited Calls for Greater Emphasis on Quality Medical Equipment

Published

6 months ago

October 22, 2025

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In response to the Federal Government’s renewed focus on eliminating substandard medical equipment from Nigerian hospitals, PPC Limited has reiterated the importance of strengthening quality assurance in the country’s healthcare sector

According to Dr. Emmanuel Iyere, Head of Diagnostics Services at PPC Limited, the widespread use of unreliable or poorly maintained medical devices undermines clinical outcomes and puts patients at risk. Addressing this challenge requires greater accountability in procurement, closer monitoring of equipment standards, and a stronger focus on sustainable investments in trusted technologies.

“Healthcare professionals can not deliver optimal care without dependable tools. When equipment fails, it places unnecessary strain on caregivers and can compromise patient safety. Nigeria’s hospitals must be supported with reliable systems that meet international standards,” Dr. Iyere stated.Stakeholders need to be at the forefront of strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare ecosystem through innovative Public-Private partnerships (PPPs). We have achieved notable collaborations, including the provision of diagnostic imaging solutions for tertiary hospitals and the supply and maintenance of laboratory equipment in partnership with state governments. These PPPs demonstrate how combining government support with private-sector expertise can deliver sustainable, high-quality healthcare services.”He further emphasized that by aligning procurement with global best practices and prioritizing quality over short-term cost savings, the healthcare system can better protect patients, reduce waste, and strengthen trust in medical services.

Health

Why Nigeria Needs AEDs in Every Public Space and Trained Personnel to Use Them

Published

9 months ago

August 6, 2025

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In Nigeria today, sudden cardiac emergencies, including heart attacks and cardiac arrest, are no longer rare occurrences. According to SOS Emergency Response Technologies, hypertension affects over 40% of the adult population, and with cardiovascular diseases becoming increasingly prevalent, the need for immediate lifesaving interventions is higher than ever.Heart-Related Illness: A Growing National ConcernHeart-related illnesses have become a major national concern in Nigeria. According to the Nigerian Hypertension Society and Nigerian Heart Foundation, approximately 76 million Nigerians live with high blood pressure, and only a small fraction have their condition under control. Sudden cardiac events, often tied to unmanaged hypertension, are striking people in their prime, sometimes within minutes.Hypertension affects approximately 38–42% of adult Nigerians, with only about 7% achieving effective blood pressure control, according to reports by The Guardian.The Nigerian Cardiac Society also notes that heart disease claims over 20 million lives globally each year, most of them in low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria. These realities are compounded by reports of individuals collapsing from unexpected heart attacks, often attributed to undiagnosed hypertension or heart disease.These figures highlight a major public health challenge: sudden cardiac arrest and heart disease are claiming thousands of lives, many of which could be prevented with timely detection and early intervention.The PPC Healthcare Solution: AEDsAutomated External Defibrillators (AEDs) play a critical role in saving lives during sudden cardiac events. When used in combination with basic CPR, AEDs can triple the chances of survival. Time is critical: survival declines by 10% with every minute without defibrillation. When CPR is used together with an AED, survival chances can triple—even if medical services are still en route (CESAHA.org). Unfortunately, in Nigeria, AEDs are rarely found in public settings.According to guidelines from the Nigerian Cardiac Society, AEDs should be made available in high-traffic, high-risk locations such as airports, shopping malls, markets, schools, universities, event centres, hospitals, clinics, security posts, banks, workplaces, and high-rise buildings.However, simply having AEDs is not enough. Trained staff, such as security officers, receptionists, and event personnel, must be certified in Basic Life Support (BLS) and AED use. According to national standards, each facility installing an AED should train at least 10 personnel to ensure the device is used effectively in emergencies.Every minute without defibrillation reduces a cardiac arrest victim’s survival odds by 7–10%. Keeping AEDs accessible and training people to use them can make the difference between life and death (SOS Emergency Response Technologies).At PPC Limited, we advocate for legislation and policies mandating AED presence in vulnerable public spaces. Businesses, event locations, schools, and transit hubs are encouraged to install AEDs. We also provide not only the deployment of AEDs but also CPR and AED training programs for frontline staff and security personnel.At PPC Healthcare, we believe saving lives is everyone’s responsibility. The integration of AEDs and training programs into Nigeria’s public infrastructure is not just smart, it’s urgent. For more information, visit www.ppcng.com

Health

Inside Afrihealth Expo 2025: Key Highlights and Why You Shouldn’t Miss It

Published

10 months ago

June 17, 2025

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Africa’s largest convergence of healthcare professionals, innovators, and solution providers has landed in Lagos, and it’s already shaping up to be a game-changer. From the 18 to 20 June, all roads will lead to the Welcome Centre Hotel, Airport Road, Lagos as Afrihealth Expo 2025 brings together stakeholders from across the continent to discuss, showcase, and collaborate on sustainable healthcare innovations that will drive the future of medical care in Africa.

From high-level panel discussions to product unveilings and strategic partnerships, here are some of the key highlights of this year’s event and why it matters more than ever to be part of the conversation.

A Hub of Innovation and Technology

One of the biggest draws of Afrihealth Expo 2025 is its display of cutting-edge health technologies. From AI-powered diagnostics to portable imaging devices and smart hospital infrastructure, the exhibition halls are packed with next-generation solutions that are redefining access, quality, and efficiency in healthcare delivery.

PPC Healthcare Division, in collaboration with its global OEM partners including Vinno, Comen, Neusoft, and Cardioline, are among the standout exhibitors. With live demonstrations of advanced ultrasound systems and discussions around the integration of technology in maternal and neonatal care, PPC Healthcare is making a strong case for diagnostics as a critical driver of healthcare equity.

Conversations that Drive Policy and Practice

The event also plays host to keynotes and roundtable sessions led by policymakers, medical experts, and industry leaders. Topics such as universal health coverage, local manufacturing, health financing, and workforce development are being explored with urgency and depth, reflecting the need for holistic approaches to Africa’s healthcare challenges.

According to Dr. Chukwunonso Izechukwu, Assistant General Manager of PPC Healthcare, “Events like Afrihealth are vital, not just for showcasing technology, but for shaping the policy and collaboration frameworks that ensure innovation reaches the last mile. The conversations we’re having here are laying the foundation for a more resilient and inclusive healthcare system.”

Networking that Translates to Impact

Beyond the sessions and booths, Afrihealth Expo is a space for meaningful connection. From cross-border partnerships to public-private collaborations, the event is a fertile ground for building relationships that turn ideas into impact.

Healthcare providers, investors, engineers, and government bodies are coming together in real time to exchange insights, forge alliances, and design solutions with the power to transform communities.

Why You Should Be at Afrihealth Expo

Whether you’re a healthcare practitioner, a policymaker, a tech innovator, or a student with a passion for public health, Afrihealth Expo 2025 is the place to be. It’s not just about seeing what’s new, it’s about being part of what’s next.

By attending, you gain access to first-hand exposure to breakthrough technologies, expert knowledge from across the continent, new opportunities for partnership and growth and a deeper understanding of the issues shaping Africa’s health future

PPC Limited, through its healthcare division, is proud to be part of this transformative event, contributing solutions, facilitating dialogue, and advocating for healthcare systems that leave no one behind

Visit the PPC Healthcare booth at Afrihealth Expo 2025 from 9.00am to 4.00pm on 18 to 20 June and be part of the movement to reimagine Africa’s healthcare story.