New Leadership at Tamale Teaching Hospital Receives Stern Charge from Regional Minister: “Put Patients First”
Tamale, Ghana – May 15, 2025
In a decisive move to steer Tamale Teaching Hospital (TTH) toward reform and renewed public trust, the Northern Regional Minister has called on the facility’s new leadership to embrace accountability, professionalism, and patient-centered care.
The charge came during a high-level courtesy call at the Regional Coordinating Council on Thursday, led by Dr. Abubakari Bawa Abdulai, the newly appointed Acting Chief Executive Officer of TTH. Dr. Abdulai, who officially assumed office on April 23, 2025, was joined by members of the newly inaugurated hospital board, chaired by Dr. Simon Naporo.Their visit marked the beginning of what is hoped to be a turning point for the northern Ghana ‘s premier referral hospital, which in recent months has been under public scrutiny following management lapses and allegations of negligence.
Dr. Abdulai replaces Dr. Adam Atiku, who was relieved of his position amid claims of professional misconduct, including negligence that reportedly contributed to a patient’s death, as well as concerns over dormant medical equipment at the hospital.
In his remarks, the Regional Minister issued a candid reminder of the immense responsibility placed on the hospital’s new leadership.“You are here to serve the people, not personal interests,” he stressed, cautioning against the rising trend of doctors splitting their focus between public duties and private practice. “The public deserves full attention and commitment from those entrusted with their care. This hospital must be a beacon of trust and excellence, not controversy.”
The Minister’s words come against a backdrop of wider systemic issues in Ghana’s healthcare sector, where the tension between public service and private gain continues to affect efficiency and equity in service delivery. But there was also a ton of cautious optimism. He urged the new leadership to rebuild fractured relationships within the hospital and to work toward better staff-patient interactions, describing respectful, compassionate care as essential to improving health outcomes.
Dr. Abdulai, in response, acknowledged the challenges ahead but pledged to restore confidence in the institution through transparency, accountability, and inclusive leadership.“We are committed to a new vision for Tamale Teaching Hospital — one that is grounded in integrity, collaboration, and above all, service to our community,” he said. “This is not just about restoring reputation; it’s about saving lives and ensuring every patient receives the care they deserve.”
Board Chairman Dr. Naporo echoed these sentiments, adding that the team intends to take a proactive approach to reform and strategic oversight.The visit has raised expectations among stakeholders and the general public, who are hopeful that this new chapter will bring lasting improvements to one of northern Ghana’s most critical health institutions.
For now, all eyes are on Dr. Abdulai and his team as they navigate the delicate path of transformation — one that will require courage, commitment, and an unwavering focus on the public good.
Source: Issifu Alidu Laa-Bandow//Zaaghana.com
