By: Anem Jenifer, Ude Obiageli & Onodugo Adaobi

UNTHNEWS ONLINE


The atmosphere at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Ituku Ozalla, was electric today, February 19th, 2026, as staff, colleagues, and dignitaries gathered to bid farewell to a fallen hero, Dr. Martin Ogoegbunam Egbue. The Cardiothoracic surgeon, who had dedicated his life to saving others, was being honoured one last time in UNTH before his body was taken to his hometown in Anambra State.

(L-R), Dr. Kingsley Ekwuazi, DCMAC Hospital Operations & Outstations; Dr. Nkiruka Nwafia, DCMAC Laboratory & Radiological Services; the DA, Mrs. Uche Obi; the CMAC, Dr. Charles Nonyelu; & the DCMAC Emergency Medicine and Outpatient, Dr. Jude Onyia

As the procession arrived, the cream of the hospital’s staff, including the Chief Medical Director, represented by the Chairman Medical Advisory Committee (CMAC), the Director of Administration, Mrs. Uche Obi, and some DCMAC’S paid their respects to the deceased.

Rep of the CMD/CMAC, Dr. Charles Nonyelu, while delivering his speech

Speakers, including Professors from UNTH and a former Vice Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Prof. Benjamin Ozumba, described Dr. Egbue as an epitome of humanity who had served with passion and dedication. They recalled his pioneering work in establishing the open heart surgery center at UNTH and how he became a household name in Cardio Thoracic Surgery in the seventies.

The CMAC/CMD’S, Dr. Nonyelu & the DA, Mrs. Uche Obi, meet the family of the deceased after the event

One notable speaker, Prof. Martin Aghaji, paid a glowing tribute to the deceased, highlighting his achievement as the only surviving cardio-thoracic surgeon who performed the first open-heart surgery in sub-Saharan Africa in 1974. This feat had earned UNTH the designation as a Centre of Excellence in Cardio Thoracic Surgery.

The chaplain of the St. Anthony of Padua Chaplaincy, UNTH, Fr. Stan Ogbonnia, offered prayers, seeking God’s peace and comfort for the departed soul and his family. Among the dignitaries present were Prof. Basden Onwubere, Prof. Benjamin Ozumba,

The eldest son of the deceased expressed gratitude to the UNTH community for the warm reception and tribute, affirming their optimism about the hospital.