Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital (OOUTH) in Sagamu has praised IHS Nigeria and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) for their life-saving contribution through the donation of an oxygen plant in 2023.
The plant, which is also supported by the Canadian Government, has had a significant impact on the hospital’s ability to provide critical care to its patients.
During a recent visit to the hospital, IHS Nigeria representatives assessed the operational status and impact of the oxygen plant, which was donated as part of the company’s commitment to improving healthcare across Nigeria.
The plant, equipped with 50 units of 6-cubic-metre cylinders and 150 units of 3-cubic-metre cylinders, serves key departments at OOUTH, including Anaesthesia, ICU, Paediatrics, Accident and Emergency, Labour, and Surgery.
Hospital management expressed deep appreciation for the plant, highlighting its crucial role in ensuring a steady supply of oxygen, particularly for patients who cannot afford to pay. The plant’s timely intervention has led to improved medical outcomes and saved many lives by ensuring oxygen availability even in emergency situations.
The visit was also attended by Honourable Ola Oresanya, Ogun State’s Commissioner for Environment, who commended the initiative for its alignment with the state’s health and environmental goals. Oresanya praised the project for its sustainable impact on healthcare delivery and its contribution to the state government’s efforts in building a healthier and more resilient Ogun State.
Titilope Oguntuga, Director of Sustainability at IHS Nigeria, remarked, “As a responsible organisation, we aim to positively impact the communities we serve. Our visit to OOUTH is part of ensuring that the oxygen plant continues to deliver the life-saving benefits it was intended to provide. We are humbled by the gratitude expressed by the hospital, which strengthens our resolve to continue creating sustainable, meaningful change.”
Celine Lafoucriere, UNICEF’s Chief of Field Office, emphasised the importance of collaboration in achieving health equity.
She said, “This partnership exemplifies how combining expertise, funding, and a shared vision can build resilient health systems and deliver essential services to those in need.”
Dr. Oluseun Adeko, Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee at OOUTH, representing the Chief Medical Director, thanked IHS Nigeria and UNICEF for their foresight.
“This oxygen plant has enhanced our ability to manage emergencies and respiratory cases, not only within our hospital but also for other medical facilities. We are truly grateful for this generous donation, which has saved lives and continues to support our efforts to improve healthcare in the region,” he said.