A trip round Igbinedion University Teaching Hospital (IUTH), Okada, is more than a physical journey—it is a passage through vision, legacy, innovation, and firm commitment to excellence.
Tucked away in the serene town of Okada, Edo State, Nigeria, this remarkable institution began its journey on May 3, 1993, as the Igbinedion Hospital and Medical Research Centre, Okada Wonderland. Since then, it has grown into a pillar of hope and healing, standing tall as Nigeria’s first private teaching hospital.
Today, IUTH proudly lives up to its motto, “…pioneering medical excellence!”, shaping the future of medicine and redefining patient care through cutting-edge technology, top-tier expertise, and a far-reaching impact that transcends borders.
A Thriving Medical Ecosystem
From its humble roots, IUTH has evolved into a dynamic and expanding health and academic network, birthing several vital institutions that reinforce its mission across Edo State and beyond.
IUTH Benin Centre undergoing remodeling.
Nestled in the heart of Benin City, the IUTH Benin Centre extends the hospital’s renowned care closer to urban dwellers. Offering outpatient consultations, specialist clinics, and follow-up care, it provides an essential bridge between communities and quality healthcare.
IUTH College of Nursing Sciences, Okada
Located on the main Okada campus, this college is a model of excellence in nursing education. It molds compassionate, competent, and ethically grounded professionals through a blend of rigorous academics and hands-on clinical training, preparing the next generation of nursing leaders.
Igbinedion College of Health Technology, Benin
This forward-looking institution focuses on the training of Medical Laboratory Technicians, Pharmacy Technicians, and Community Health Extension Workers, while also offering certificate programmes for mortuary attendants and other essential support personnel. The college is a vital pipeline of skilled manpower for the healthcare sector, with plans underway to further broaden its academic offerings.
IUTH Diagnostic Centre, Benin
Equipped with cutting-edge diagnostic tools, this centre offers a full spectrum of laboratory, radiological, and imaging services to both referrals and walk-in clients. Precision and efficiency define its operations, contributing to timely diagnosis and improved patient outcomes.
Commanding Global Leadership
At the heart of IUTH’s recent transformation is its visionary Chief Medical Director, Dr. Ya’u Abubakar Gagarawa—a celebrated laparoscopic surgeon of international standing. Before his appointment at IUTH, Dr. Gagarawa served as Head of the Department of Surgery at the National Hospital, Abuja, and is a Fellow of the West African College of Surgeons. Revered as Africa’s most sought-after surgeon, Dr. Gagarawa has ushered in a new era of surgical excellence at IUTH.
Under his leadership, the hospital has, among others, acquired more state-of-the-art medical equipment and modernization of the theatres designed for a wide range of advanced surgical procedures. These facilities have cemented IUTH’s position as a regional hub for minimally invasive and complex surgeries, transforming patient experiences and clinical outcomes alike.
Anchored by Visionaries
HE, Sir Chief (Dr.) Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, CON, CFR, the Esama of Benin Kingdom, The Honourable Chancellor, Igbinedion University Okada and Founder IUTH, Okada.
IUTH thrives under the resolute backing of its founding father, The Honourable Chancellor, Sir Chief (Dr.) Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, CON, CFR, the Esama of Benin Kingdom. His vision remains the hospital’s North Star.
His Excellency, Chief (Dr.) Lucky Nosakhare Igbinedion, Deputy Chancellor, Igbinedion University Okada.
He is ably supported by the Deputy Chancellor, His Excellency, Chief (Dr.) Lucky Nosakhare Igbinedion, the Board of Regents and the Governing Council populated by eminent Nigerians cutting across all spheres of human endeavor, as well as the foresighted Vice-Chancellor of Igbinedion University Okada, Professor Lawrence Ikechukwu Ezemonye, PhD, FAS.
Governing Council, Igbinedion University. Okada.
This collective leadership ensures that IUTH remains grounded in purpose, guided by wisdom, and propelled by innovation.
Charting New Frontiers
The horizon continues to expand for IUTH. Plans are actively underway to establish a modern In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Centre, a major leap toward offering comprehensive reproductive health services. The proposed centre promises to bring hope to families and strengthen IUTH’s position as a one-stop centre for advanced fertility care.
In February 2025, IUTH made history by hosting the 1st South-South Neurosurgical and Neuro-Spine International Conference, attracting top-tier specialists and academic minds from across the globe.
This event further showcased IUTH as a growing center of neurosurgical excellence, blazing a trail for knowledge exchange, innovation, and collaboration.
Beyond Medicine—A Legacy in Motion
IUTH is not just a hospital; it is a legacy in motion. Through its expansion projects, global partnerships, and continuous medical education programmes, it remains deeply committed to its founding mission: advancing healthcare delivery, producing world-class professionals, and making a difference in every life it touches.
As Nigeria’s first private teaching hospital, IUTH stands as a living monument to vision and resilience—built on the dreams of its founder, sustained by the hands of its dedicated professionals, and carried forward by a legacy of pioneering medical excellence!
-Moses Uyi Osaretin, CAO/PRO, IUTH, Okada/Benin, Edo State, Nigeria. email: uyi.osaretin@iuokada.edu.ng, Phone: +234 8079855555.