Joy Agwunobi
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has taken a major step towards transforming healthcare delivery in the country with the launch of an e-health project at the State Specialist Hospital in Akure, Ondo State.
The project, which introduces advanced digital tools into the hospital’s operations, signals a new chapter in the commission’s ongoing effort to use Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to improve access to quality healthcare for all Nigerians.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Aminu Maida, executive vice-chairman of the NCC, described the project as a clear demonstration of how technology can be harnessed to solve real-life challenges in the health sector.
“The commissioning of this e-health project at the State Specialist Hospital, Akure, attests to our collective resolve to harness ICT to improve and revolutionise the health sector in Nigeria in a manner that better serves citizens,” Maida stated.
He explained that this initiative is part of a broader push to ensure that digital innovation extends beyond commerce and communication into sectors that directly impact people’s daily lives; like healthcare.
According to Maida, the integration of ICT in the health sector offers a two-fold benefit: it digitally uplifts healthcare institutions to the same level of efficiency already seen in other sectors, while also ensuring that healthier citizens are better equipped to engage in and contribute to the digital economy.
“We thus enhance the quality of medical services and ensure that these services are accessible to all, regardless of geographical location, by integrating advanced ICT solutions into healthcare,” he said.
With the new system in place, the State Specialist Hospital can now support digital recordkeeping, remote consultations, faster diagnostic processes, and real-time data access; tools that will significantly boost the speed and quality of care delivery.
“The hospital is now equipped with innovative technology that allows healthcare professionals to deliver timely and precise diagnoses, craft accurate treatment plans, and provide consistent follow-up care. The benefits of this project extend beyond the hospital itself into the wider community,” Maida added.
He also noted that such innovations have the potential to bridge healthcare access gaps, especially in underserved and remote areas where medical infrastructure is limited.
Maida expressed optimism that the successful rollout of the project in Akure would spur similar initiatives across the country and accelerate the broader adoption of e-health services in Nigeria.
He acknowledged the critical role that collaboration played in bringing the project to life and emphasised the importance of continued partnerships in scaling such efforts nationwide.
“We want to reaffirm our commitment to collaboration and partnership. This project succeeded because of the contributions of all stakeholders who worked alongside the NCC. Their dedication and expertise have created a model that can be replicated and scaled to other regions,” he said.
In closing, Maida extended heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to the project’s realisation.
“Your dedication, expertise, and support have been instrumental in bringing this vision to life. It is through such collaborative endeavours that we can continue to drive progress and innovation in our country,” he said.
With this new digital upgrade in place, the State Specialist Hospital in Akure is now better positioned to offer faster, smarter, and more efficient healthcare; a move the NCC hopes will set a new standard for technology-driven health services across Nigeria.
