The Enugu State Government has commissioned a newly renovated and fully equipped Neonatal and Special Babies Ward at the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) Teaching Hospital, Parklane, as part of activities marking the 2026 Children’s Day celebration.
The upgraded facility, delivered through the support of the Cecilia Oyebola Foundation, is expected to strengthen neonatal healthcare services and improve outcomes for newborns requiring specialized medical attention.
The ward has been fitted with modern medical equipment, including incubators, phototherapy units, infusion and syringe pumps, autoclave machines, patient monitoring systems, and improved nursing facilities aimed at enhancing the quality of care provided to infants.
Representing Governor Peter Mbah at the commissioning ceremony, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, described the project as a reflection of the administration’s commitment to improving healthcare services across the state.
He commended the founder of the foundation and the governor’s Special Adviser on Health, Dr. Yomi Jaye, for supporting efforts to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and improve access to quality medical services.
According to Onyia, the intervention demonstrates the value of collaboration between public institutions and private initiatives in addressing critical healthcare needs and advancing the state’s development agenda.
He noted that ongoing investments by the state government have contributed to the transformation of ESUT Teaching Hospital into a more modern healthcare facility capable of delivering improved medical services to residents.
The government, he added, remains focused on expanding healthcare infrastructure, improving medical equipment, and developing the capacity of healthcare professionals to meet growing healthcare demands.
Former Governor of old Anambra State, Senator Jim Nwobodo, who participated in the unveiling ceremony alongside his wife, Dr. Patricia Nwobodo, praised the improvements made at the facility and described the upgraded neonatal ward as a significant addition to healthcare services in the state.
He said the quality of the facility reflected the progress being made in Enugu’s health sector and highlighted the importance of continued investment in critical healthcare infrastructure.
Speaking during the event, Dr. Jaye explained that the project was motivated by his commitment to child welfare and the need to improve neonatal healthcare services.
He noted that the facility was designed in line with modern infection prevention and control standards, which are essential for protecting vulnerable newborns and reducing health complications.
Dr. Jaye also emphasized that the project aligns with broader efforts to improve healthcare delivery through preventive care, upgraded facilities, and enhanced patient-centered services.
Earlier, the Chief Medical Director of ESUT Teaching Hospital, Prof. Bethrand Ngwu, expressed appreciation for the support received from the state government and the foundation.
He said recent interventions had contributed significantly to improved healthcare delivery, enhanced staff morale, and increased the hospital’s capacity to provide specialized treatment.
Ngwu assured that the new equipment and facilities would be properly maintained and utilized to provide quality care for newborns and other vulnerable patients.
The commissioning of the upgraded ward is expected to boost neonatal healthcare services in Enugu State and support ongoing efforts to reduce infant mortality through improved access to specialized medical care.
