By Gbenga Akingbule
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Borno State Council, on Wednesday sought stronger collaboration with the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) to improve public information dissemination.
Gatekeepers News reports that, according to the NUJ leadership in the state, the partnership with UMTH became necessary given the hospital’s position as a leading healthcare institution in the North-East region and the need to strengthen public health communication, promote accurate health reporting and ensure that the hospital’s achievements and services receive wider public attention.
This was disclosed by the NUJ Chairman in Borno State, Comrade Abdulkareem Haruna, during a courtesy visit to the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of UMTH, Professor Faruk Buba, in Maiduguri.
Comrade Haruna congratulated Buba on his appointment, expressing confidence that his leadership would advance healthcare delivery, research and institutional development at the hospital.
He commended UMTH for its critical role in saving lives and providing emergency and trauma care during nearly two decades of insurgency in the state , describing the hospital as a beacon of hope and resilience.
” We have no doubt that under your stewardship, UMTH will reach even greater heights in healthcare delivery, research, and institutional growth.” Comrade Haruna said.
The NUJ chairman called for closer collaboration between the hospital management and the Union to improve public health communication and ensure greater visibility for UMTH’s achievements.
He further appealed to the CMD to approve the establishment of an NUJ chapel within the hospital to promote professional development, ethical standards and networking opportunities for information officers who are members of the union.
” In line with our shared goal of enhancing communication and professional standards, I wish to humbly intimate the CMD on a key proposal. The information and public relations unit of UMTH has grown significantly and now comfortably forms the required quorum to establish an NUJ UMTH Chapel.
” Approving and supporting the creation of this chapel will yield immense institutional benefits. It will grant your information officers direct access to NUJ-backed professional development, ethical oversight, national networking, and specialized capacity-building opportunities. Ultimately, a better-trained and well-integrated communications team will serve UMTH with enhanced efficiency, loyalty, and professional rigor. We respectfully appeal for your favorable consideration and approval for the inauguration of the NUJ UMTH Chapel.” The Borno NUJ leader said.
In his remarks, the CMD thanked the NUJ for the visit and emphasized the strategic importance of UMTH as the largest tertiary medical facility in West Africa. He stated that the management will continue working hard to maintain its reputation as an award-winning hospital featuring at least 12 specialized medical centers.
Professor Buba expressed his commitment to strengthening ties with the NUJ, particularly through specialized training for health reporters. He directed the CMAC and the Director of Administration to explore avenues for collaboration in this regard.
Regarding the establishment of an NUJ UMTH Chapel, the CMD gave his approval for the relevant unit to present the necessary paperwork and requirements for official approval as soon as possible. He also called on journalists to maintain high ethical standards in information dissemination, especially regarding public health matters.
