By Don Peter Okoro JP-UN.
It was celebration galore on Friday, the 15th of May, 2026, at the permanent site of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital Nnewi when the Commissioning and Handover of the 1.5 TESLA Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) System took place.
The facility was donated by the NNPC Foundation. It was indeed a historic landmark in the annals of the Teaching Hospital. According to the Chief Medical Director of NAUTH,Prof. Joseph Ugboaja, “”the 1.5 Tesla Magnetic Resonance Imaging system is one of the most sophisticated diagnostic tools in modern medical technology.It uses a powerful magnetic field and radiology – frequency technology to produce highly detailed images of the internal body organs, tissues, nerves, blood vessels, joints and brain without exposing patients to harmful radiation.
The 1.5 Tesla Specification refers to the strength of the magnet which is considered the global standard for advanced clinical imaging, because it combines exceptional image quality with patient’s safety and efficiency.”” He pointed out that the System has the following features: “”a brain and spinal cord imaging detection of stroke and neurological disorders, cardiac and vascular imaging and musculoskeletal imaging for bones, joints and sports injuries. Other features include: cancer detection and tumour evaluation, abdominal and pelvic scan pediatric imaging, obstetrics and gynaecological diagnosis, prostrate and genitourinary imaging,whole- body screening and advanced disease monitoring. The machine also provides a clearer and more accurate imaging, faster scanning time, improved patient comfort and enhanced precision for Doctors and Surgeons in making life-saving medical decisions.
” It is worthy to note that with the installation of this MRI System, the CMD pointed out that there will be improved early disease detection and treatment. It will save lives through quicker diagnosis, improve emergency and trauma care, strengthen healthcare access for rural and urban communities and reduce medical tourism outside the country.
Above all, it will position NAUTH as a leading referral and diagnostic Centre in Nigeria. From the Beneficiaries especially the people of Nnewi and Environs came words of commendations and exaltations as amplified by the Monarch of Nnewi ably represented by the Heir Apparent, Crown Prince Dr. Obichendo Orizu who commended the NNPC for a job well done.
He pointed out that the donation demonstrates Corporate Patriotism, Social Responsibility and a Genuine Commitment to improving the well-being of Nigerians. He stated that by investing in the critical healthcare infrastructure, the Foundation has shown that impactful Public -Private-Partnership remains essential to National development.
It should also be noted that the project is in alignment with the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Renewed Hope Agenda. It aligns strongly with the Healthcare Transformation Agenda of Bola Tinubu’s renewed hope vision of strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system through modernization of infrastructural development, improved access to quality care and strategic partnership.