As the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) celebrates its 45th Anniversary, we honor the visionaries whose dedication has transformed healthcare delivery in Nigeria. Among them is Professor John Ikimalo, a distinguished Obstetrician and Gynecologist whose pioneering efforts established In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) at UPTH — a milestone that continues to bring hope to families across the region.
A Young Doctor’s Journey into Obstetrics and Gynecology
Prof. Ikimalo recalls his early years with humility:
“After my youth service in 1984, I wanted to specialize in obstetrics and gynecology. UPTH was still very new at the time, and I had doubts about joining because I thought a bigger, older center might offer a faster route to success. But a professor encouraged me, saying, ‘You can pass your exams anywhere if you have the right teachers.’”
At that time, UPTH already had giants in the field — Professor Harrison, Professor Nemi Briggs, and Professor C.T. John — all of whom were internationally recognized. Encouraged by this, Prof. Ikimalo joined UPTH in 1984 as part of the second set of residents, and his journey of impact began.
Rising Through the Ranks
Through dedication and mentorship, Prof. Ikimalo gained invaluable skills under his professors. By 2006, he rose to become Head of Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. This was a period of transition, as UPTH moved from its old site to the new facility. Despite challenges, his leadership helped stabilize the department and position it for innovation.
The Birth of IVF at UPTH
One of Prof. Ikimalo’s greatest contributions was the establishment of the IVF and Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) unit at UPTH.
The journey was far from easy:
- It began around 2007, under then CMD Prof. Ettawo, who provided space for the project.
- Securing equipment was difficult, but with persistence and the support of colleagues such as Prof. Ujule and Dr. Wada, the unit gradually took shape.
- Embryologist Mr. Gim also provided crucial technical and financial support to set up the laboratory.
After nearly 10 years of preparation, the IVF center officially began operations in 2017. By 2019, UPTH celebrated its first successful IVF birth — a landmark moment for both the hospital and the families who benefited.
Beyond IVF: A Vision for the Future
Prof. Ikimalo emphasizes that IVF is not just about technology or financial returns:
“People often think IVF is highly profitable, but in truth, the equipment, drugs, and consumables are very expensive. What matters most is patient satisfaction and ensuring people no longer have to travel abroad for fertility treatments.”
Today, UPTH’s IVF unit provides not only IVF but also a full range of assisted reproductive technologies. More importantly, Prof. Ikimalo celebrates the growth of the next generation:
“My greatest joy is seeing the young doctors we trained now becoming super-specialists, performing procedures here in Nigeria that once required traveling abroad.”
A Message of Commitment
As UPTH marks its 45th anniversary, Prof. Ikimalo reminds younger doctors of the value of integrity and compassion in medicine:
“The way you work in public service is the same way you will work in private practice. If you are not committed, humane, and empathetic, you will not succeed anywhere.”
Celebrating 45 Years of Excellence
Prof. Ikimalo’s journey is a testament to UPTH’s mission of innovation, excellence, and service to humanity. His pioneering role in IVF reflects how far the institution has come since its humble beginnings.
As UPTH looks to the future, his story reminds us that progress in healthcare is built on persistence, vision, and a commitment to improving lives.
🎉 Happy 45th Anniversary to the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital!
