The Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH) has taken a significant step towards strengthening cardiovascular healthcare with the unveiling of its Department of Cardiology, the official opening of dedicated Cardiology Wards, and the launch of two advanced cardiac imaging services during the hospital’s Cardiology Day 2026 celebration.
The landmark event, held on Tuesday, 28 July 2026, also witnessed the introduction of CT Coronary Angiography (CTCA) and Speckle Tracking Echocardiography, two state-of-the-art diagnostic technologies aimed at improving the early detection and management of cardiovascular diseases.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Chief Medical Director of RSUTH, Prof. Chizindu A. Alikor, described the development as another major milestone in the hospital’s mission to provide world-class cardiovascular care for the people of Rivers State and beyond.
The Head of the Department of Cardiology, Dr. Boma Oyan, traced the evolution of cardiology services at the institution to its establishment as a colonial-era nursing home in 1925. She noted that the department has grown into a specialised unit staffed by consultant cardiologists, resident doctors, specialist nurses and other healthcare professionals committed to delivering comprehensive cardiovascular services.
Dr. Oyan highlighted the growing burden of cardiovascular disease, describing it as the leading cause of mortality both globally and locally. She called for sustained investment in advanced cardiovascular infrastructure to improve patient outcomes and expand access to specialist care.
A major highlight of the event was an educational lecture delivered by Dr. Emmanuel Ovundah Nyeche, Consultant Cardiologist and Head of the Department of Nuclear Medicine, who provided insights into the clinical applications of Speckle Tracking Echocardiography and CT Coronary Angiography in contemporary cardiovascular diagnosis and patient management.
The ceremony attracted members of the hospital’s management, healthcare professionals and prominent figures within the medical community. Goodwill messages were delivered by the Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Rivers State, Dr. (Prof.) Annabel Ureh Oparaodu; the Chief Medical Director of Palmars Hospital Ltd., Dr. Okey Ibeabuchi; the “Father of Cardiologists in Rivers State Government Service,” Dr. Goodleave N. Owhonda; the Chairman of MDCAN-RSGHs, Dr. Woroma Wonodi; the representative of the Executive Secretary of RIVCHIPP, Dr. Juliet Aleme; the Chairperson of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (RSUTH Chapter), Nurse Eucharia Obua; former Medical Director of Braithwaite Memorial Specialist Hospital, Dr. Paul Kua; Prof. Jack Omodu; and the Dean of the Faculty of Clinical Sciences, Prof. A. ChapJumbo.
In his closing remarks, Prof. Alikor reaffirmed RSUTH’s commitment to providing the highest standard of healthcare and expressed appreciation to the Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, for his continued support for the state’s healthcare sector.
The event concluded with a guided tour of the newly established Department of Cardiology, its dedicated wards and the advanced diagnostic facilities, underscoring RSUTH’s determination to position itself as a leading centre for specialised cardiovascular care in Nigeria.
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