UI Alumni Donate $1 Million Worth of Equipment to University College Hospital
The College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Class of 1989, has generously donated hospital equipment worth $1 million to the University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan. This donation, facilitated through Project C.U.R.E., a US-based non-governmental organization that specializes in supplying medical equipment to developing countries, includes essential items like hospital beds, crutches, wheelchairs, and mobile ultrasound machines.
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
The College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Class of 1989, has made a generous donation of hospital equipment valued at $1 million to the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, aimed at enhancing healthcare delivery. This significant contribution was facilitated by Project C.U.R.E., a US-based non-governmental organization dedicated to collecting and distributing medical equipment to hospitals in developing countries.
The official handover took place on Monday, with Class President Olatunji Akintilo, represented by Mojisola Talabi, expressing excitement over the realization of a long-held vision. “We are here today to witness the result of a dream come true,” Talabi stated, highlighting the donation's purpose in supporting UCH's mission to maintain its status as a center of excellence in healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
The donation includes essential items such as hospital beds, mattresses, crutches, wheelchairs, consumables, and mobile ultrasound machines. Talabi explained that the Class of 1989 had initiated the collaboration with Project C.U.R.E. in 2020, following a site visit to UCH, which led to a compiled list of needed equipment. A container of medical supplies was subsequently shipped from the US and arrived at Tin Can Port in Lagos in October 2021.
However, the process was not without challenges, as the equipment faced difficulties clearing Nigerian Customs, incurring hefty fees and demurrage charges. Talabi noted that at times, the situation seemed dire, but perseverance led to the successful clearance of the equipment, which finally reached UCH on October 3, 2024.
UCH Chief Medical Director Jesse Otegbayo expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the hospital, stating that this donation represents the largest single contribution received during his six-year tenure. “I am truly happy today. This is the single largest donation we have received at UCH since I assumed office,” Otegbayo remarked, emphasizing the Class of 1989's commitment to addressing the hospital's needs.
He also commended UCH staff members, particularly Victor Makanjuola and Taiye Soyinka, for their dedication throughout the three-year process of clearing the container. The newly donated equipment is expected to significantly enhance UCH's capacity to provide quality healthcare services to the community.
