RismadarVoice Reporters, April 29, 2026
The Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH) has taken a significant step in specialised healthcare delivery with the unveiling of advanced renal care services during its maiden Kidney Day, held on April 8, 2026.
Chief Medical Director, Chizindu A. Alikor, described the development as a major milestone for the institution and the region. He announced the introduction of Continuous Kidney Replacement Therapy (CKRT), Automated Peritoneal Dialysis for both adults and children, and Plasma Exchange (Plasmapheresis), positioning RSUTH as a leading centre for renal medicine.
According to Prof. Alikor, the newly installed technologies will enable the hospital to provide life-saving interventions that were previously unavailable locally, thereby improving patient outcomes and reducing the need for treatment abroad.
In her welcome address, the Head of the Renal Centre, Eleki J. Beniboba, highlighted the growing burden of kidney disease globally. She stressed the importance of early detection and intervention, noting that proactive healthcare measures are critical in reducing mortality linked to non-communicable diseases.
The event drew a wide range of stakeholders from both public and private sectors. Among the dignitaries present were Vincent Wachukwu, Permanent Secretary designate of Rivers State; Peter Ikechi Didia, CMD of Abia State Specialist Hospital and Diagnostic Centre; Chimezie Okwuonu, President of the Nephrology Society of Nigeria; and Patience Obiagwu of Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital.
Also in attendance were leading nephrologists and academics including Obiago Eze of the University of Port Harcourt, Datonye D. Alasia, and Asumpta Chap-Jumbo, Dean of the Faculty of Clinical Sciences at Rivers State University.
A highlight of the event was the presentation of an award to Prof. Alikor by Dr Okwuonu on behalf of the Nigerian Society for Apheresis. The hospital was recognised as a national centre of excellence “bridging the gap between global medical standards and local healthcare delivery.”
Stakeholders commended RSUTH’s leadership for its forward-looking vision, noting that the expansion of renal services would significantly reduce medical tourism and improve access to quality care within Rivers State and beyond.
RSUTH has reaffirmed its ambition to serve as a major referral hub, advancing innovation and excellence in Nigeria’s healthcare system.
