MDCN Grants FUHSO Pre-Clinical Accreditation, Approves Housemanship Programme for Teaching Hospital

The Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) has granted pre-clinical accreditation to the Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo (FUHSO), following a rigorous assessment exercise conducted on May 22, 2026.

In a parallel development, the Federal University of Health Sciences Teaching Hospital, Otukpo (FUHSTHO) also received approval to commence its Housemanship Programme, marking a major expansion in the institution’s medical training capacity.

The accreditation exercise was carried out by a 13-member MDCN team led by Dr. Nnameka Nwakama, who evaluated the university’s academic structure, facilities, manpower, and compliance with professional medical training standards.

The exercise was described as thorough and rigorous, with observers noting that the team undertook a detailed review of the institution’s readiness for advanced medical education.

The approvals are seen as a significant milestone for FUHSO, coming barely one year under the leadership of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Francis Aba Uba, a development stakeholders say reflects rapid institutional progress and reform within the university system.

The accreditation also strengthens FUHSTHO’s role in clinical training, as the newly approved Housemanship Programme is expected to provide hands-on medical training for graduates while improving healthcare delivery within the institution.

Speaking after the announcement, Prof. Uba, alongside the Chief Medical Director of FUHSTHO, Prof. Eyaofu Agida, expressed appreciation to the MDCN for the accreditation and confidence reposed in both institutions.

They pledged to address identified gaps noted during the evaluation and assured that the university and teaching hospital would continue to strengthen compliance with global standards in medical education and healthcare delivery.

Former Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Prof. Abdullahi A. Abba, also commended the development, describing it as evidence of strong leadership and institutional transformation within a short period.

He expressed confidence that the Vice-Chancellor’s stewardship would further position FUHSO as a leading centre for medical training in Nigeria, while urging management to sustain the momentum and not relent in improving standards.

The accreditation is widely regarded as a landmark achievement for the university and the wider Idoma region, as it enhances access to medical education and expands opportunities for clinical training and healthcare development in the area.