New Orthopaedic Hospital in Jos Launches Full Medical Services, Boosting Healthcare in North Central

 The National Orthopaedic Hospital, Jos, has officially commenced full-scale orthopaedic and plastic surgery services, marking a significant advancement in specialized healthcare for the North Central region.

The hospital's Medical Director, Professor Icha Onche, announced the milestone during a press briefing in Jos, describing it as the culmination of the institution's journey since its establishment by law in July 2021.

Professor Onche detailed the hospital's rapid progress, noting that the Plateau State Government allocated the land for the project in July 2024, after which he was confirmed as the substantive Medical Director that November.

He expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, the Federal Ministry of Health, and Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang for their pivotal support. He specifically commended Governor Mutfwang for directly funding the construction of critical access roads and other facilities, despite the hospital being a federal institution.

"The unwavering support has been instrumental in bringing this vision to life," Professor Onche stated.

The hospital is now fully operational with a staff complement of 250 and has already registered over 700 patients, approximately 150 of whom are awaiting surgery. Professor Onche emphasized that the institution's core mission is to serve humanity through "love, empathy, and compassion."

He also acknowledged the crucial donations and collaboration from the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) and other partners.

Echoing the Medical Director's announcement, the Director of Clinical Services, Dr. Ngwan Wujika, confirmed that the hospital has transitioned from basic outpatient care to comprehensive operations.

"We are now fully equipped for theatre services, patient admissions, and accident and emergency care," Dr. Wujika said. He outlined the available specialist services, which include trauma and reconstructive surgery, joint replacement, spine and paediatric orthopaedics, sports medicine, and limb reconstruction. The hospital also offers supporting services like physiotherapy, prosthetics, laboratory, and a pharmacy.

In a show of solidarity, the Chief Medical Director of JUTH, Dr. Pokop Bupwatda, praised the commencement of services at the new orthopaedic hospital as a "historic milestone for Plateau State and Nigeria."

Dr. Bupwatda reaffirmed JUTH's commitment to a strong collaborative partnership, expressing confidence that under Professor Onche's leadership, the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Jos, is poised to become a premier centre of excellence for orthopaedic care, training, and research.