…vows to drive ICT-based healthcare nationwide

By Josephine Oguntoyinbo

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has commissioned a state-of-the-art e-Health project at the State Specialist Hospital, Akure, as part of its broader commitment to integrating Information and Communication Technology (ICT) into Nigeria’s healthcare delivery system.

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony on Thursday, the Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, Dr Aminu Maida, who was represented by the Project Director, Phillips Eretan, described the project as a major milestone in the Commission’s efforts to revolutionise healthcare access through digital innovation.

“This commissioning attests to our collective efforts to harness the power of ICT to improve and revolutionise the health sector in Nigeria in a manner that better serves citizens,” Dr Maida stated.

According to him, the newly completed project serves two key purposes: facilitating the integration of the health sector into the nation’s digital economy and promoting improved healthcare outcomes that support economic productivity.

“Healthy citizens contribute better to the digital economy, even as they access care from e-health platforms,” he said. “We thus enhance the quality of medical services and ensure that services are accessible to all, regardless of geographical location, by integrating advanced ICT solutions into healthcare.”

Dr Maida emphasised that the project will significantly enhance the efficiency of medical processes, patient care, and health records management, which will ultimately lead to improved diagnosis, treatment, and patient satisfaction.

“With the deployment of cutting-edge technology at the Akure hospital, healthcare professionals are now better equipped to deliver timely and accurate diagnoses, treatment plans, and follow-up care,” he added.

He described the e-Health initiative as one that reaches beyond the walls of the hospital and into the wider community, setting a precedent for similar deployments across the country.

The EVC praised the successful collaboration between the Commission, technology experts, and the government, which he said made the project a reality.

“This collaboration has created a model that can be replicated and scaled to other regions, ensuring that the advantages of ICT in healthcare are felt nationwide,” he affirmed.

While expressing gratitude to all stakeholders involved in the execution of the project, Dr Maida reaffirmed NCC’s commitment to fostering partnerships that will accelerate digital transformation in all sectors.

“It is through such collaborative endeavours that we can continue to drive progress and innovation in our country,” he concluded.

In his welcome address, the Acting Chief Medical Director (Ag. CMD) of the hospital, Dr Adesina Akintan, represented by the Head of Research and Training, Dr Ndidi Okunuga, described Electronic Medical Record (EMR) machines as a vital tool in enhancing healthcare delivery across medical facilities. He assured that the facility would put the equipment to good use in line with its mission to improve patient care and record management.

Also speaking during the event, the Head of Department, Radiology, Dr Femi Akindeju, commended the initiative, noting its significance in strengthening healthcare systems within the state. He emphasised the critical role of electronic systems in maintaining accurate medical records, stating that such technology ensures comprehensive information about each patient is securely stored and readily accessible when needed.

The e-Health commissioning marks a significant step in the Federal Government’s vision to leverage technology for inclusive, accessible, and improved healthcare delivery across Nigeria.