The Ibom Specialist Hospital in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, commissioned in 2015 at a whopping cost of N41 billion, was touted as Nigeria’s answer to medical tourism. However, a decade later, the hospital has become a symbol of inefficiency and neglect, plagued by non-functional equipment, abandoned wards, poor working conditions, and crumbling infrastructure.
The hospital’s story is one of unmet expectations and avoidable tragedies. In April 2025, John Essien, a patient rushed into the hospital’s emergency unit, died due to oxygen shortage. Despite the hospital’s promise of world-class care, the staff had to ration oxygen, prioritizing one patient over another. This incident highlights the gap between the hospital’s promise and its harsh reality.
Another tragic incident involved Daniel Pius, a university student who suffered a spinal cord injury after a diving accident. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Pius was not treated due to lack of specialized care and equipment. He was eventually referred to another hospital, but crucial hours were lost, leaving him with limited treatment options.
The hospital’s infrastructure tells a story of neglect. Despite its modern design and gleaming facade, critical systems such as CT scans, ventilators, and laboratory equipment are non-functional. The hospital’s oxygen plant and pneumatic delivery system are also out of order.
When PUNCH Healthwise visited the hospital undercover, they observed a disconnect between the hospital’s polished front desk and its crumbling infrastructure. Water damage was visible on walls and ceilings, and several critical systems were not functioning.
The Ibom Specialist Hospital was designed to be a medical marvel, with cutting-edge technology and elite medical expertise. However, it has become a hollow shell, marked by underutilized space, broken equipment, and overstretched staff. The hospital’s failure to deliver quality healthcare services is a stark reminder of the need for accountability and transparency in public healthcare.
Source: The PUNCH
