The National Orthopaedic Hospital, Jos, Plateau State, has commenced full clinical and orthopaedic services, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s specialist healthcare delivery.
Speaking at a press briefing held at the hospital premises, the Director of Clinical Services, Dr. David Ngwan Wujika announced the official opening of the wards, operating theatres, and Accident and Emergency Unit.
Dr. Wujika noted that the development follows the successful launch of outpatient services on May 12, 2025, which has so far attended to 736 patients.
He said; “With great joy, we are commencing full orthopaedic services not just partial operations We are now ready to manage everything from trauma cases to complex reconstructive surgeries.”
The hospital now offers a full suite of orthopaedic and trauma care services, including; Trauma and reconstructive surgery; Joint replacement (hip, knee, shoulder); Limb lengthening and deformity correction; Spine surgery (trauma and non-trauma cases); Paediatric orthopaedics; Sports medicine and arthroscopy; Emergency care through the A&E Unit; Prosthetics and orthotics for amputees and; Diagnostic laboratory, pharmaceutical, physiotherapy, and psychosocial support services.
“Our goal, is to build a generation of mobile people who can walk freely and live pain-free lives.” Dr. Wujika said.
In his address the Medical Director of the Hospital Professor Icha Onche described the journey toward this milestone as huge leap.
“For the North Central Zone. The hospital, which serves six states and the Federal Capital Territory. I want to express deep gratitude to both state and federal authorities for their support particularly Governor Caleb Mutfwang, who funded the tarring of the hospital’s access roads and other infrastructure projects. This is a federal institution, but His Excellency has taken it as a personal projec. He has been directly involved every step of the way,” Prof. Onche explained.
Acknowledging the role of institutional partnerships, Prof. Onche praised the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) for its consistent support.
He said; “JUTH has been our big sister. They’ve donated equipment and provided guidance every step of the way. We also appreciate private hospitals that have contributed equipment to this mission.”
The hospital has now completed its first phase of staff recruitment, bringing on board orthopaedic consultants, medical officers, nurses, psychologists, and social workers. Out of the 736 patients already attended to, 150 are awaiting surgery according to hospital officials.
Prof. Onche noted, “This is just the beginning, we are committed to growing this hospital into a centre of excellence not just in orthopaedics, but in compassionate and ethical care.”
The National Orthopaedic Hospital was established following the signing of its bill into law by the former President on July 17, 2021 and was allocated land by the Plateau State Government in July.