
The University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) marks a significant milestone—45 years of excellence in healthcare delivery, education, and research. As part of this celebration, Professor Mrs. Tamunopriye Jaja, a distinguished consultant paediatrician and academic, reflects on the remarkable evolution of the hospital, particularly in the field of Paediatrics and sub-specialization.
From General Practice to Advanced Specialization
UPTH has transformed from a general healthcare provider into a tertiary institution with world-class sub-specialties. Prof. Jaja, who trained and grew within the institution, highlights this progress:
“Forty-five years as an institution is truly significant. The hospital has come a long way—developing specialties and now expanding into sub-specializations. As a paediatrician, I trained further in human disorders in children, and today, UPTH boasts expertise in paediatric cardiology, neurology, infectious diseases, and more.”

This shift signifies UPTH’s commitment to advanced, specialized care, ensuring better health outcomes for children and adults alike.
A Legacy of Training and Mentorship
Prof. Jaja’s journey exemplifies UPTH’s role in nurturing medical professionals:
“I completed my housemanship here as a student, underwent residency training from 2001, and today, I stand as a Professor and Consultant. The hospital has grown tremendously—not just in infrastructure but in medical education and mentorship.”
The University of Port Harcourt College of Health Sciences remains a premier training ground, producing generations of consultants and specialists. Prof. Jaja proudly notes:
“Our medical school is one we boast of—with exceptional professors and facilitators who ensure residents excel in their exams. We now have multiple generations of consultants, a testament to UPTH’s enduring legacy.”
A Vision for Global Excellence
As UPTH celebrates 45 years, the focus remains on becoming a world-class institution. Prof. Jaja shares this aspiration:
“We envision UPTH as a global-standard hospital, delivering excellent medical services, cutting-edge training, and impactful research—improving healthcare for Nigerians and residents of Rivers State.”

Join the Celebration!
UPTH’s 45th anniversary is not just a reflection of past achievements but a springboard for future advancements. Here’s to decades of saving lives, shaping medical leaders, and pioneering breakthroughs!
#UPTHat45 #MedicalExcellence #Paediatrics #HealthcareInnovation #UPTHLegacy #RiversStateHealth
Let’s continue to support and celebrate this beacon of medical excellence! 🎉🏥