The Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo (FUHSO) has responded to recent student demonstrations by clarifying its efforts regarding the accreditation of its Medicine and Surgery (MBBS) program. In a statement released on Tuesday, the university’s Head of Information, Public Relations and Protocol Unit, Sunday A. Igah, addressed what it termed as misunderstandings about the accreditation process.
The administration, under Vice-Chancellor Prof. Francis Uba since May 13, 2025, inherited significant challenges. According to the university, the MBBS program had not undergone any Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) Resource Verification or Advisory Visit for four years prior to the current leadership. Additionally, statutory accreditation fees were unpaid, and communication with the regulatory body had stalled.
Infrastructure deficits further hampered accreditation readiness. The university cited an abandoned Multi-User Laboratory, a missing Autopsy Centre, a dilapidated morgue, and laboratories that failed to meet MDCN standards. The current administration prioritized accreditation by clearing outstanding fees, initiating formal dialogue with the MDCN, and upgrading facilities.
Ongoing improvements include expanding the Anatomy Laboratory, modernizing the Human Physiology Lab, reconstructing the morgue, building an Autopsy Centre, and completing the Multi-User Laboratory. A bus for Community Medicine has been purchased, accommodation secured for pioneer medical students, and staffing gaps filled through targeted recruitment.
Students previously sent home have been recalled, and academic activities are ongoing. The MDCN accreditation visit is scheduled for May 21, 2026, marking the culmination of a year-long effort. FUHSO remains committed to achieving accreditation and safeguarding students’ academic futures.