By Ijeoma John, Nnewi
The Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital Nnewi, Anambra State has taken a new turn in healthcare delivery as 1.5 Tesla Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) was installed and commissioned by NNPC Foundation Limited.
The Ultra-modern MRI system donated, represents a major leap in diagnostic medicine not only for the people of Anambra State but for the entire South-East Region and Nigeria at large.
In his address at the event on Friday, May 15, 2026, the NAUTH Chief Medical Director, Prof. Joseph Ugboaja described the newly acquired MRI system at the Radiology Department of the hospital as installation of hope, precision and excellence in healthcare delivery for the entire people of the state and Nigeria at large.
“For too long, patients in our catchment detailed visualization of soft tissues, neurological structures, musculoskeletal area have had to travel long distances to access this level of diagnostic precision, often at prohibitive costs.
“With this installation, we eliminate that burden. We bring world-class diagnostics to the doorstep of our people,” he added.
Ugboaja further disclosed that the intervention aligned with the 10-year strategic and development plan of the hospital; President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda as well as the 4-point strategic pillars of the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare.
Improving governance of the health sector, enhancing population health outcomes, unlocking the healthcare value chain, and ensuring health security.
While acknowledging the GCEO and entire management of NNPC limited for their ‘transformative gift’ to the hospital, Prof. Ugboaja said the benefactors have not just donated equipment, but invested in human lives.
“You’ve strengthened our capacity to train the next generation of radiologists, neurologists, orthopaedic surgeons, and oncologists. You have empowered our researchers to explore new frontiers in medical imaging.
“This MRI will not sit idle-it will work tirelessly, day and night, serving the sick, guiding our clinicians, and advancing our academic mission,” he stated.
The CMD however charged the hospital staff to handle the equipment with the professionalism and care it deserved.
He added,” To our staff the consultants, residents, radiographers, nurses, and technicians who will operate this system-I charge you to handle this equipment with the professionalism and care it deserves.
“Let every image produced here be a testament to excellence. Let every diagnosis be swift and accurate. Let every patient who lies within that bore feel the confidence that they are receiving care comparable to anywhere in the world.
“We recognize that equipment alone does not a great hospital. It is the human beings behind the equipment – their expertise, their compassion, their dedication.
“That is why we have simultaneous invested in training and human resource development, ensuring that the team managing this MRI meets international standards of practice.”
NAUTH CMD furthermore extended his deepest gratitude to the Igwe of Nnewi, HRH Igwe Dr. KON Orizu lll, CON, JP for the construction and donation of the magnificent ICT Centre that housed the MRI.
Reacting, the Managing Director, NPC Foundation Ltd/Gte, Mrs Emmanuella Arukwe said healthcare delivery in Nigeria has continued to face enormous pressure, particularly in the area of access to advanced diagnostic services.
For many families, she said, obtaining critical diagnostic scans such as Magnetic Resonances Imaging MRI often requires travelling long distances, enduring extended waiting periods, and in some cases delaying urgently needed medical care because of cost or limited availability.
“It is in response to challenges such as these that NNPC Foundation Ltd/Gte, the social impact arm of NNPC Limited, has supported the installation and commissioning of a modern 1.5 Tesla MRI Machine at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital.
“This intervention represents far more than the installation of medical equipment. It is a practical investment in healthcare access, diagnostic accuracy, and improved patient outcomes for millions of Nigerians across the South East and neighbouring region. Patients from Anambra, Enugu, Imo, Abia, Ebonyi, and Delta States will now have greater access to timely and reliable imaging services closer to home,” she concluded.
