The Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo (FUHSO), and Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital (ISTH), Edo State, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to combat infectious diseases.
The Public Relations Officer of FUSHO, Mr James Onogwu who made the disclosure in a statement on Wednesday in Makurdi, said that the MoU was part of efforts to redefine the healthcare landscape in Nigeria.
Onogwu said that the MoU which was signed in Otukpo was to advance medical education, research and frontline response to infectious diseases like Lassa fever and other emerging pathogens.
The PRO said that Prof. Stephen Abah, Acting Vice Chancellor of FUHSO, who spoke at the signing ceremony, said that the MOU marked a bold commitment to bridging academia and clinical practice in Nigeria.
Abah said that the partnership would drive joint training programmes, cutting-edge research, and enhanced diagnostic services to position Nigeria at the forefront of global health innovation.
“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.
“This partnership exemplifies Nigeria’s commitment to homegrown solutions for global health challenges.
“I am particularly excited about this partnership because it is a timely response to global health threats.
“FUHSO’s mandate is to produce health professionals who would not just treat diseases but redefine healthcare paradigms, so what we are doing here today aligns with our institution’s vision,” he explained.
The Chief Medical Director of ISTH, Prof. Reuben Eifediyi who also spoke at the signing ceremony, said the importance of the institutions’ collaboration to combat infectious diseases could not be overemphasised.
“By uniting FUHSO’s academic prowess with ISTH’s clinical experience, we are building an unbreakable shield for Nigeria in health care delivery,” Eifediyi said.
The key areas of the partnership, according to the statement, include training and capacity building, which would be joint programmes to upskill healthcare workers, with potential dual certifications in specialised fields.
“The partnership also involves collaborative studies on viral pathogens, leveraging ISTH’s expertise in Lassa Fever management and FUHSO’s academic rigour.
“We will share laboratory infrastructure to boost Nigeria’s pandemic preparedness and diagnostic accuracy.
“The partnership will boost academic innovation, such as the development of accredited diplomas and certificates in infectious disease management and public health,” the statement explained.
The MoU signing was witnessed by top medical scholars, including the pioneer vice chancellor of FUHSO, Prof Innocent Ujah.
Others were former acting pro-chancellor Prof. John Idoko; the immediate past provost, College of Medicine – FUHSO, Prof. Oladapo Shittu; as well as other senior management teams of both ISTH and FUHSO.
NAN
