By Ifeanyichukwu Ibe
The Management Board Chairman of Mark of Glory Hospital, MCC Road, Owerri, Dr. Mark Okhueleigbe, has urged Nigerians, particularly medical professionals, to remain committed to serving the nation, stressing that dedication, compassion and professional excellence are vital to improving the lives of citizens.
Okhueleigbe, a Consultant Neurosurgeon and Critical Care Medical Practitioner with the Federal Teaching Hospital, Owerri, made the call after receiving the prestigious “Beacon of Hope Award” from the Federation of Mbaise Media Professionals (FMMP).
The award was presented to him on Thursday, August 13, at Chris VI Hotel, Ahiara, Mbaise, during the pre-Iri-ji Mbaise Lecture Series organised by FMMP. The event also featured a grand reception in honour of Comrade Ezenwa Adiuku, Vice President of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), South-East Zone, who is of Mbaise extraction.
Presenting the award, the National President of FMMP, Comrade Patrick Mgbaja, said the organisation recognised Dr. Okhueleigbe for his distinguished medical practice, contributions to community development and humanitarian service.
Mgbaja congratulated the awardee and urged him to remain steadfast in his service to humanity, describing his accomplishments as worthy of recognition and emulation.
Responding, Okhueleigbe expressed gratitude to FMMP for the honour, saying the recognition gave him a strong sense of fulfilment that his professional efforts were making an impact beyond hospitals and medical facilities.
He said the award had motivated him to redouble his efforts in delivering healthcare services with greater zeal, care, attention and compassion.
The medical practitioner also pledged to encourage colleagues considering travelling abroad in search of greener pastures to reconsider their decisions and contribute their expertise to the development of Nigeria’s healthcare system.
According to him, the honour would further strengthen his resolve to serve patients and the wider society while encouraging other professionals to contribute meaningfully to national development.
Okhueleigbe further highlighted his cordial relationship and partnership with the people of Mbaise, expressing optimism that the award would strengthen the existing bond and encourage greater collaboration in the service of humanity.
He disclosed plans by Mark of Glory Hospital to expand its services through the acquisition of advanced medical equipment, including laser technology and endovascular neurosurgery instruments, to improve access to specialised healthcare.
He also revealed plans to establish stronger referral partnerships with other healthcare institutions to ensure that patients requiring specialised treatment receive timely and appropriate care.
The hospital board chairman commended the media for its role in promoting productivity, competence, professional standards and the welfare of members of society.
He urged FMMP to remain focused on its objectives and continue to deploy the media as an instrument for promoting development, accountability, professionalism and positive values in society.
The colourful ceremony, chaired by the President General of Ezuruezu Mbaise, Surveyor Joe Nnosike, attracted government officials, traditional rulers, academics, captains of industry, journalists, medical colleagues, friends and associates of the awardee.
The event ended with renewed calls for the recognition of individuals distinguished by selfless service, with participants noting that such honours serve as encouragement for recipients to attain greater feats in their various fields.
