In a landmark initiative aimed at transforming healthcare delivery in Nigeria, twelve renowned medical doctors practicing across the globe have come together to establish a world-class tertiary hospital in Anambra State.
The facility, named Pinnacle Consultant Hospital and Clinics, is being constructed by GUMEC Nigeria Limited in Ojoto, Idemili South Local Government Area. It is envisioned to serve as a comprehensive medical center, offering all branches of medicine and pioneering advanced treatment services like kidney and pancreas transplants.
At the groundbreaking ceremony, which attracted a host of dignitaries, the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Charles Soludo—represented by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike—praised the initiative. Other attendees included the traditional ruler of Ojoto, HRH Igwe Gerald Mbamalu; Chairman of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council, Igwe Chidubem Iweka; Chief Louis Onwugbenu, Chairman of Louis Carter Group; Silvester Okonkwo, Executive Director of the South East Development Commission; and various medical professionals.
Speaking at the event, the President of the United Doctors, Prof. Ndubueze Fidelis Okonkwo, emphasized that quality healthcare should not be a luxury reserved for the rich.
“All men are created equal and deserve access to the best healthcare possible,” Okonkwo said. “We want to lead a movement that delivers world-class wellness solutions and puts an end to medical tourism in Nigeria.”
He noted that Nigerian doctors in the diaspora have continued to prove their competence on the global stage, with an estimated 77% of the 26,000 black physicians in the U.S. being Nigerians. “It’s ironic that many Nigerians travel abroad for medical care only to be treated by fellow Nigerians,” he added.
Prof. Okonkwo highlighted the hospital’s ambitious plans, including a cancer treatment center, transplant services, and training programs for local healthcare providers. The hospital will also uphold values such as integrity, stewardship, compassion, and patient-centered care.
Philanthropist and businessman Sir Louis Onwugbenu, who has already invested about N2 billion into the project, shared his personal motivation for supporting the vision. Recalling his battle with COVID-19 abroad, he said, “I promised God that if I survived, I would dedicate my wealth to providing quality healthcare for those who can’t afford it.”
Engineer Ifeanyichukwu Godson Ume, Chairman of GUMEC Nigeria Ltd., confirmed that the hospital is designed to host every medical specialty and is expected to be completed before the end of 2026.
Traditional ruler Igwe Gerald Mbamalu hailed the initiative as a historic milestone that will drastically reduce the need for Nigerians to seek medical care overseas.
