NEST360 Empowers UCH with 90kW Solar Inverter

Introduction to NEST360's Impact on Neonatal Care in Nigeria

NEST360, an international alliance dedicated to improving newborn survival across Africa, has made significant strides in supporting critical healthcare facilities in Nigeria. Recently, the organization provided a combined 90-kilowatt solar inverter boost to three key hospitals: University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan; Adeoyo Maternity Teaching Hospital; and Oni Memorial Children's Hospital. This initiative aims to ensure stable, round-the-clock power for neonatal care, which is essential for saving lives in these facilities.

Solar Inverter Installations at Key Hospitals

At UCH, a newly installed 60-kilowatt solar inverter was officially commissioned for the Special Care Children's Unit. This system is designed to provide reliable power for critical neonatal care, ensuring that medical equipment and life-saving procedures can continue without interruption. Meanwhile, Adeoyo Maternity Teaching Hospital and Oni Memorial Children's Hospital each received 15-kilowatt systems, further enhancing their capacity to support newborns in need.

The installation of these solar inverters marks a significant step forward in addressing the challenges faced by Nigeria’s neonatal sector. With Nigeria ranking second globally in newborn deaths, the need for reliable power sources in healthcare facilities is more urgent than ever.

NEST360's Broader Mission and Achievements

NEST360 is an innovative global health initiative focused on reducing neonatal mortality through scalable, evidence-based solutions. The organization has already provided interventions in 23 health facilities across Nigeria, demonstrating its commitment to improving neonatal care on a large scale.

In addition to solar inverter installations, NEST360 has supplied affordable, high-quality neonatal equipment to hospitals. These include radiant warmers, oxygen concentrators, and syringe pumps—essential tools for the care of newborns. The organization also focuses on strengthening healthcare capacity through training programs for medical staff.

Perspectives from Key Stakeholders

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony at UCH, the Country Lead of NEST360, Professor Chinyere Ezeaka, commended the hospital for its strong collaboration with the alliance since 2020. She highlighted the urgent challenges facing Nigeria’s neonatal sector, emphasizing that the country ranks second globally in newborn deaths.

Ezeaka also noted that NEST360, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health, continues to supply hospitals with essential neonatal equipment. She expressed her belief that every newborn deserves the chance to survive and thrive.

Dr. Opeyemi Odedere, NEST360 Country Director, described the solar installation as a “life-changing intervention for newborns requiring uninterrupted power.” He added that the organization provides vital equipment for diagnosis, monitoring, and the management of newborns, along with training for healthcare workers on equipment use and maintenance.

“This solar inverter will definitely impact the care of newborn babies. Through your leadership of the management at UCH, the work we do becomes even more meaningful,” he said, expressing gratitude for what he described as the hospital's enabling environment.

UCH's Appreciation for NEST360's Partnership

UCH Chief Medical Director, Professor Jesse Abiodun Otegbayo, praised NEST360 for its transformative five-year partnership with the hospital. He highlighted the progress made in the care of babies and other sectors of the facility, expressing his full appreciation for the organization’s efforts.

Conclusion

NEST360’s initiatives are making a tangible difference in neonatal care across Nigeria. By providing reliable power solutions, essential medical equipment, and training for healthcare workers, the organization is helping to reduce neonatal mortality and improve outcomes for newborns. As the partnership between NEST360 and Nigerian healthcare facilities continues to grow, the future looks brighter for countless infants who depend on these life-saving interventions.