Okwuonu’s nomination as S’East rep in development of standards for dialysis excites Abia govt
By Steve Oko
Abia State Government, has expressed delight over the appointment of the Chief Medical Director, CMD, of Abia State Specialist Hospital and Diagnostic Centre, Dr Chimezie Okwuonu, by
the Nigerian Nephrology Society to represent South East Nigeria in developing national standards for operating dialysis units.
Gov Alex Otti, in a statement by the Commissioner of Information, Prince Okey Kanu, described the nomination as as a reflection of Okwuonu’s global impact and the growing reputation of Abia as a hub for medical excellence.
The statement made available to Wawa News Global read:”The Abia State Government under the leadership of His Excellency, Dr Alex Otti OFR has continued to record success after success in different aspects of governance as a result of the quality of core professionals in it’s fold. Only a few days ago, Dr Chikezie Okwuonu, the Chief Medical Director of Abia Specialist Hospital and Diagnostic Center, was nominated by the Nigerian Nephrology Society to represent Southeast Nigeria in developing national standards for operating dialysis units.
“Dr Okwuonu’s recognition is a testament to his unwavering dedication, expertise, and pioneering contributions to nephrology in Nigeria.
“As the first medical expert to introduce kidney transplantation in Southeast Nigeria during his tenure at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Umuahia, Dr. Okwuonu has established himself as a trailblazer in the medical field.
“With extensive medical training spanning institutions like Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, postgraduate residencies at Aminu Kano and Benin Teaching Hospitals, and advanced kidney transplantation programs at the University of Ohio (2017) and the University of Virginia’s (2023), Dr. Okwuonu possesses a very rich resume with both national and international recognition.
“Beyond his clinical feats, Dr. Okwuonu holds a PhD in Kidney Physiology from Abia State University and has played key roles in drafting national guidelines for kidney care and transplantation. His collaborations with leading universities and medical institutions have further cemented Abia’s leadership in health innovation and development.
“Dr Okwuonu’s professional achievements also include leadership roles as Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in both Umuahia and Abia State, in addition to serving as the Chief Medical Director of one of the state’s flagship healthcare facility.
“Dr Okwuonu’s recent awards, including the International Society of Nephrology’s Emerging Leaders Award (2024) and multiple fellowships, reflect his global impact and the growing reputation of Abia as a hub for medical excellence.
“We celebrate this significant achievement and take pride in Dr. Okwuonu’s continuous efforts to place Abia on the map of medical innovation.
As we applaud Dr Okwuonu for this remarkable recognition, we reaffirm the state government’s dedication to empowering healthcare professionals and promoting a system that will continue to attract professionals with global recognition to Abia state.”
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