Electricity, Water Shortages Disrupt Operations at Nigeria’s Oldest Teaching Hospital
Story: written by Uzuh Rita March 6,2026
Severe shortages of electricity and water have forced major service disruptions at University College Hospital, Nigeria’s first teaching hospital, raising concerns about healthcare delivery at the historic medical institution.
The hospital, which serves thousands of patients from across the country, has reportedly struggled to maintain normal operations due to persistent utility failures affecting critical departments and medical services.
Sources within the facility said the prolonged power outages and inadequate water supply have significantly slowed clinical activities, affecting patient care and hospital management.
University College Hospital, located in Ibadan, is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s foremost tertiary healthcare institutions and plays a vital role in medical training and specialist treatment.
Health experts warn that continued disruption of electricity and water supply could compromise healthcare delivery, delay medical procedures and worsen conditions for patients who rely on the hospital for specialised treatment.
The situation has also sparked concerns among stakeholders in the health sector, who say urgent intervention is required to restore stable utilities and prevent further disruption of services.
Observers say the crisis highlights the broader challenges facing Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure, particularly in large public hospitals that depend heavily on consistent power and water supply to function effectively.
Authorities are expected to explore emergency measures to stabilise operations and ensure the hospital can continue delivering essential healthcare services.
