FG Hails ATBUTH’s Landmark Achievement in Medical Innovation

By Omoyeni Ojeifo

The Federal Government has congratulated the management and researchers of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital over the successful patent registration of GASTROPEX-BH, describing the development as a major boost for Nigeria’s growing healthcare innovation and research sector.

ln a statement issued on Friday, by the Assistant Director, Information and Public Relations, Ado Bako Ado, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, said the achievement reflects the increasing ability of Nigerian medical institutions and professionals to provide practical local solutions to critical healthcare challenges.

Pate lauded the management, staff and research team of the teaching hospital for sustaining a culture of scientific excellence and innovation aimed at improving healthcare delivery and patient outcomes across the country.

“This achievement represents an important milestone for Nigeria’s health research and innovation ecosystem and demonstrates the growing capacity of our institutions to develop homegrown solutions to healthcare challenges,” the minister said.

He also commended the innovators from the Department of Surgery, Dr. Aminu Muhammed Umar and Dr. Kefas John Bwala, for their dedication and intellectual contribution that led to the successful development and patent registration of GASTROPEX-BH.

According to him, the breakthrough further highlights the need for continued investment in medical research, local innovation and human capacity development as part of efforts to strengthen the nation’s healthcare system.

“The Federal Government remains committed to supporting policies and initiatives that encourage scientific innovation, medical research and collaboration across health institutions in line with ongoing reforms to transform healthcare delivery in Nigeria,” Pate added.

The ministry expressed optimism that the breakthrough would encourage more researchers and healthcare institutions to intensify efforts toward developing innovations that strengthen health systems and improve outcomes in Nigeria and across the African continent.