DR. AKABUIKE HANDS OVER AS CMD OF COOUTH, DR. UMEAKUEWULU ASSUMES OFFICE
Posted On: 2026-03-20 12:50:42
DR. AKABUIKE HANDS OVER AS CMD OF COOUTH, DR. UMEAKUEWULU ASSUMES OFFICE The outgoing Chief Medical Director of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital (COOUTH), Amaku, Awka, Dr. Joe Akabuike, has officially stepped down from office and handed over the leadership of the institution to the newly appointed Chief Medical Director, Dr. Maureen Uche Umeakuewulu. The handover ceremony marked the formal transition of leadership in the Teaching Hospital, with staff, government officials, and stakeholders in attendance. Speaking during the ceremony, Dr. Akabuike expressed deep appreciation to the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, for the trust, confidence, and support he enjoyed throughout his tenure. He also expressed strong confidence in the ability of the new Chief Medical Director, noting that her proven track record and experience would further advance the progress and reputation of the Teaching Hospital. In her inaugural address, Dr. Umeakuewulu thanked the Governor for giving her the opportunity to serve the people of Anambra State. She described her appointment as a homecoming, noting that she was returning to serve in her home state after more than thirty years of professional practice outside Anambra, particularly in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. She also appreciated the outgoing Chief Medical Director for his leadership and acknowledged the support of the State Commissioner for Health. The new CMD further assured staff and stakeholders of her commitment to collaborative leadership, emphasizing that she would run a transparent and open system that welcomes suggestions and advice from all quarters in order to build a Teaching Hospital recognized as a centre of excellence. She also pledged to prioritize staff welfare, describing it as the bedrock of a progressive and productive institution. Also speaking at the event, the Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, commended Dr. Akabuike for his contributions to the growth of the Teaching Hospital and welcomed the new CMD. He stressed that the hospital belongs to the people of the state and must be developed into the best healthcare institution possible. He noted that the hospital is trusted by government officials and even the First Family of Anambra State use it, while thanking the Governor for leading by example in promoting confidence in the institution. The event also featured a Holy Mass, followed by a tour of key facilities in the hospital and a ceremonial launch. Several dignitaries, staff members, and well-wishers attended the occasion.
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COOUTH Amaku, Awka.