By peace udugba- The daily torch media
The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) has strengthened healthcare capacity in Bayelsa State with the commissioning of a state-of-the-art Clinical Skills and Simulation Laboratory at Bayelsa Medical University (BMU), Yenagoa.
The facility, fully equipped by the Board, is designed to align the university with global best practices in medical education while boosting local capacity in Bayelsa State and Nigeria at large.
Commissioned on Friday at the university’s Clinical Skills Acquisition Centre, the laboratory features high-fidelity adult and pediatric patient simulators, laparoscopic training systems, obstetric trainers, advanced life support mannequins, consultation cubicles, and audio-visual learning systems. University authorities said the equipment would allow students to “learn, make mistakes, and perfect their life-saving skills in a zero-risk environment before they ever touch a human patient.”
Speaking at the ceremony, the Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, described capacity building as extending beyond oil and gas. Represented by Mr. Ene Ette, Acting Director, Planning, Research and Statistics, he noted that healthcare, education, engineering, and logistics are critical sectors linked to the oil and gas ecosystem.
“Simulation-based learning is now the global standard in medical education,” he said, explaining that it enhances hands-on clinical competence, decision-making, and confidence in a controlled environment before real patient interaction. He described the upgraded laboratory as a strategic investment in human capital development and a practical demonstration of how policy can translate into measurable impact.
In his welcome address, the Vice Chancellor of BMU, Professor Dimie Ogoina, said the event signified more than the unveiling of a building or medical equipment. According to him, it represents a decisive step toward securing the future of healthcare in Bayelsa State, the Niger Delta, and Nigeria.
He recalled unveiling his A.S.P.I.R.E. Agenda upon assuming office in 2025 — a roadmap to transform the university into a globally recognised leader in medical education, research, and innovation driven by technology and excellence.
“Today, as we look at this world-class facility, we are seeing the ASPIRE Agenda come to life,” he stated, adding that the investment would reduce medical errors, improve patient safety, and develop indigenous healthcare professionals capable of competing globally.
The Vice Chancellor also expressed appreciation to Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, and the Commissioners for Health and Education for creating an enabling environment that fosters strategic partnerships.
Similarly, the Provost of the College of Medicine, Professor Philip Eyimina, said the upgraded laboratory played a vital role in the institution’s recent accreditation verification exercise. He noted that the presence of a well-equipped Clinical Skills Laboratory affirmed the university’s readiness to deliver high-quality medical education in line with national standards.
Represented by the State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Gentle Emelah, Governor Diri lauded the NCDMB for the intervention, describing it as a clear demonstration of support for the university’s vision of becoming a leading institution in medical education.
In a goodwill message, the Pro-Chancellor, Professor Tarilah Tebepah, thanked the NCDMB for its foresight and generosity, urging the Board to sustain its support as the university continues to address resource challenges.
The ceremony concluded with a tour of the facility, showcasing its Virtual Reality Station, Paediatric and Airway Management Stations, ECG and Patient Monitoring Station, IV Fluids Administration and Cannulation Station, and Demonstration Hall.
