Federal Teaching Hospital Lokoja has appointed Professor Abdulrahaman Ozovehe Shehu as its new Chief Medical Director.
Professor Shehu formally assumed office at a handover ceremony in Lokoja, succeeding Dr. Sunday Ojochide Ebune, who had overseen the hospital in acting capacity pending the appointment.
Speaking shortly after taking over, Professor Shehu called for a new orientation among staff, stressing that the hospital exists to serve patients.
“The hospital system should be designed to serve patients, not the other way round,” he said.
The new CMD commended his predecessor for sustaining the institution and pledged to build on the achievements recorded during his tenure.
Professor Shehu also stressed the importance of teamwork and collective responsibility, describing heads of departments as members of the hospital’s top management team.
He urged all staff to take ownership of the institution and ensure prompt treatment of official documents and requests.
According to him, no file or issue requiring attention should remain unattended for more than 24 hours, while management responses should not exceed 48 hours. He added that where an officer is unavailable, the next person in line should act without delay.
The CMD further pledged to promote accountability and innovation within the hospital, encouraging workers to bring forward ideas capable of improving service delivery.
He assured staff that management would support initiatives that would move the hospital forward, while also leveraging the support of the hospital board and other stakeholders to attract development interventions.
Professor Shehu said he would also prioritize a more friendly and supportive work environment, urging heads of departments to see themselves as mentors and caregivers to their subordinates.
“If your face is hard, your staff will not be able to discuss their problems with you. You are not just the head of the department, you are the father of that department,” he said.
He called on workers to embrace the new administration and work together to reposition the hospital.
“The old things have passed away, and new things are beginning today,” he added.
Professor Abdulrahaman expressed gratitude to the coordinating Minister of health and social welfare Prof. Mohamed Ali Pate ,Minister of State for Health,Dr.Iziaq Adekunle Salako for their support and all others who contributed to his appointment, acknowledging their roles in advancing healthcare in the state.
He also thanked the Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, for his unwavering commitment to the health sector and the hospital, pledging continued collaboration with the state government to tackle pressing health challenges.
