The Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH) in Nnewi, Anambra State, has celebrated Professor Ifeoma Egbuonu, a distinguished Professor of Paediatrics, for her outstanding contributions to the field of paediatrics within Nigeria’s tertiary health sector. This recognition was part of a recent event where new facilities were inaugurated at the Teaching Hospital’s Permanent Site by the Honorable Minister of Health, Professor Mohammed Ali Pate.
One of the newly commissioned facilities, the Children’s Emergency Complex, was named after Professor Egbuonu, a significant honor that reflects her commitment and impact in the field. The facility is now known as the “Prof Ifeoma Egbuonu Children’s Emergency Complex.” Professor Joseph Ugboaja, the Chief Medical Director of NAUTH, stated that this dedication was in recognition of Professor Egbuonu’s exceptional services to the institution and her influential role in advancing paediatric care.
During the commissioning, the Minister of Health commended Professor Egbuonu’s dedication to paediatric care and her efforts in educating the next generation of medical professionals, not only at NAUTH but throughout Nigeria.
Professor Egbuonu expressed her gratitude and joy for the recognition, stating to the Nigerian Tribune that she was deeply touched by the honor. She highlighted the fulfillment she feels knowing that her lifelong contributions to paediatric health and education have been acknowledged.
A Storied Career in Paediatric Medicine
Professor Ifeoma Egbuonu’s illustrious career began at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH). She later worked at several health institutions under the Anambra State Ministry of Health before joining Nnamdi Azikiwe University and its Teaching Hospital in 1993. She was promoted to Professor of Paediatrics in 2005.
Throughout her career, Professor Egbuonu has been instrumental in training both undergraduate and postgraduate medical students and has served as an examiner for numerous medical schools, including the National Postgraduate College and the West African College of Physicians. Her leadership extends beyond her educational roles; she has been a past President of the Paediatric Association of Nigeria and the first female President of the West African College of Physicians.
In addition to her academic and clinical achievements, Professor Egbuonu is a foundation Fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Medicine and has served as a consultant for international organizations such as UNICEF in Nigeria, Ghana, and Liberia, and the World Health Organization (WHO). She has also worked closely with various Ministries of Health at all levels of government.
Recognitions and Awards
Professor Egbuonu’s contributions to the health sector have been widely recognized. In December 2023, she received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 3rd edition of the Anambra Man of the Year Award. She was also honored with the chieftaincy title of Ada Ife Ora of Oraifite by Igwe Dr. Dan Udoji (Anumanu VIII of Oraifite). Her accolades extend internationally; she was celebrated as a Mother of Honour at All Saints Cathedral, Onitsha, and received a Gold Medal Award from the West African College of Physicians in Ghana, presented by the President of Ghana.
These recognitions underscore Professor Egbuonu’s extraordinary career and her unwavering dedication to paediatric medicine and education, marking her as a trailblazer and role model in Nigeria’s medical community.
