As the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) celebrates its 45th Anniversary, it is important to reflect on its rich history and the remarkable journey that brought it to where it is today. One of the pioneers who witnessed and shaped this journey is Professor Celestian T. John, fondly called “Teaching John” by many within the institution.
A Distinguished Career
Prof. C. T. John, the Right Honorable Chevia, is a papal knight of the Catholic Church, a Knight of St. Wumba, and a fellow of the Royal College, West African Colleges, and the International College. His academic and professional journey has been closely tied to the growth of UPTH and the University of Port Harcourt’s medical school.
After serving in Lagos, he was persuaded to join the University of Port Harcourt and its teaching hospital in 1981, following encouragement from colleagues such as the late Prof. Francis (the first Provost and Chief Medical Director) and his friend, the late Prof. Mimi Briggs.
The Early Days
In its earliest years, the administrative arm of the teaching hospital was located at Choba Park, while clinical services were conducted at the cottage hospital in Nimu-Moa. Despite the challenges of commuting and limited resources, the small group of dedicated staff laid the foundation of what has become one of Nigeria’s foremost teaching hospitals.
Among the pioneering team were:
- Prof. Francis (CMD)
- Prof. Mimi Briggs (Head of Department)
- Specialists in surgery, psychiatry, gynecology, and anesthetics, including Prof. Harrison, Prof. Anna, and others who contributed immensely to the institution’s early growth.
Prof. John himself went on to serve as Head of Department for 15 years, the longest tenure of any HOD in West Africa at the time.
Relocation and Growth
On 31st August 1983, UPTH officially relocated from the cottage hospital to the General Hospital in Port Harcourt, marking a new chapter in its history. This move was supported by the state and federal governments and brought the hospital closer to the city’s population.
It was during this period that significant changes occurred: the roles of Provost and Chief Medical Director were separated, with the Provost overseeing the College of Health Sciences and the CMD managing the teaching hospital.
Leadership Through the Years
Over the decades, UPTH has been led by several distinguished CMDs, including:
- Dr. Long John (Chief Medical Officer)
- Dr. Mangete
- Prof. Jul
- And many others who steered the hospital through different eras of growth.
Prof. John recalls with pride that today’s CMD, Prof. Henry A.A. Ugboma, was once his resident doctor, whom he admitted, trained, and watched rise through the ranks.
A Legacy of Excellence
Reflecting on his years of service, Prof. John expressed gratitude for being part of UPTH’s journey. He prayed for continued growth, noting his hope that the hospital will become one of the foremost teaching hospitals in West Africa.
He also paid tribute to his colleagues who laid the foundation of the institution but have since passed on, wishing them eternal rest.
“All I can wish for is the hospital to grow and grow and become one of the topmost teaching hospitals in West Africa. We thank God for His many blessings, and may the souls of my colleagues who started this place rest in peace. I commend the present CMD and wish the hospital well.” – Prof. C. T. John
UPTH’s history is not just about buildings and expansions; it is about people — visionary leaders, dedicated staff, and passionate professionals who gave their all to ensure the hospital thrives. As UPTH marks its 45th Anniversary, the words of Prof. John remind us that the hospital’s legacy is rooted in resilience, innovation, and service to humanity.
