The Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH) has hosted the South-South flag-off of the nationwide Advanced and Basic Cardiac Life Support (ACLS/BLS) Workshop, an initiative led by the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD). The program aims to strengthen emergency response by equipping healthcare professionals with vital life-saving skills to manage cardiac emergencies effectively.

The opening ceremony featured top dignitaries including the Permanent Secretary of the Rivers State Ministry of Health, Dr. Mekele Igwe; RSUTH Chief Medical Director, Prof. Chizindu Alikor; NARD President, Dr. Osundara Tope; and ARD RSUTH President, Dr. Tamunobarabiye Ibifubara Nonju.

In her address, Dr. Igwe stressed the importance of cardiac life support training for both medical and non-medical personnel, highlighting that “everyone can save a life” with the right knowledge. She officially declared the workshop open, encouraging participants to share knowledge, gain practical skills, and help improve cardiac care outcomes across the region.

Prof. Alikor underscored the urgent need for improved emergency response to prevent sudden cardiac deaths in public spaces. He noted that basic training and access to simple emergency tools could save lives and pledged RSUTH’s commitment to expanding such training initiatives beyond hospital walls.

The workshop combines theoretical and hands-on sessions, focusing on emergency recognition, swift response, and patient resuscitation techniques. It marks a major step in RSUTH’s mission to advance medical education and strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system.

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