Following his appointment as the Acting Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the Federal University Teaching Hospital, Wukari, Professor Daniel Egah has assured the Federal Ministry of Health and the Presidency of his unwavering dedication to his role and his commitment to delivering high-quality healthcare services.

Professor Egah, the pioneer CMD of the hospital, shared his gratitude for the opportunity in an interview with The Guardian, yesterday in Taraba.

“I am grateful to the federal government for considering me for this role. I promise to serve with utmost diligence and to achieve the goals set for this institution,” he stated.

Egah, a professor of Clinical Microbiology, outlined his vision for the teaching hospital, emphasizing his aim to create a center of medical excellence.

“My goal is to build a hospital known for its top-tier medical services, which can serve as a referral center for other healthcare facilities within and beyond Taraba State,” he explained.

While acknowledging the support from the state government under Governor Agbu Kefas, who has contributed significantly to the hospital’s growth, Egah called for further assistance.

“Governor Kefas has donated N50 million, a brand-new Hilux vehicle, and other resources to help our operations,” he said, adding that the state government continues to cover the monthly salaries of the hospital’s staff.

Despite these contributions, Egah emphasized the need for a federal takeoff grant to stabilize the institution’s operations and reduce reliance on individual donors. “We don’t want to resort to private funding. A takeoff grant from the federal government would ensure that we can achieve our goals without compromising our standards,” he urged.

The hospital has achieved remarkable milestones in its initial months, including over 400 childbirths in the first five months of 2024. Moreover, 20 consultant specialists from neighboring Plateau State have expressed interest in joining the hospital, indicating the institution’s growing reputation.

Egah also noted the hospital’s strong relationship with the local community, with support from notable leaders like the monarch of Wukari Kingdom, the Gara Donga, and the Chief of Ibi. “Their backing has been crucial in fostering a positive environment for our hospital’s growth,” he said.

As the hospital seeks to expand its services, the Acting CMD reiterated the importance of continued federal and state government support. “To ensure the long-term success of the hospital and its capacity to provide critical medical services to the people of Taraba State, we need ongoing assistance,” he concluded.

With his focus on medical excellence and community partnership, Professor Egah, said he is poised to lead the Federal University Teaching Hospital, Wukari, towards a brighter future.