PLABOMA Seeks Strategic Partnership with National Orthopedic Hospital Jos to Boost Health Awareness
In a bid to enhance public health awareness and improve the dissemination of credible medical information, the Plateau Bloggers and Online Media Association (PLABOMA) on Friday, August 22, paid a courtesy visit to the National Orthopedic Hospital, Jos (NOHJos), proposing a strategic collaboration.
The PLABOMA delegation was warmly received by the Chief Medical Director of NOHJos, Prof. Icha Inalegwu Onche, and the hospital’s Director of Administration, Mr. Gideon Nchoka Adamu.
During the visit, PLABOMA’s Public Relations Officer, Peter Akpah, emphasized the association’s pioneering role as Nigeria’s first organized body of bloggers. He underscored PLABOMA’s commitment to credibility, professionalism, and positive narrative shaping in the digital space.
“Today, people rely on us for accurate news. Even influencers seek our validation before sharing content,” Akpah noted. “We’ve worked hard to clean up the blogging space in Plateau by ensuring our members uphold high standards.”
In his address, PLABOMA Chairman, Mathew Tegha, explained that the visit was not merely ceremonial but aimed at building a strong partnership with NOHJos.
“The National Orthopedic Hospital Jos is a symbol of excellence in specialized healthcare. As digital media professionals, our role is to amplify such institutions, share their success stories, and promote preventive health messaging,” Tegha said.
He proposed areas of collaboration, including storytelling around the hospital’s achievements, countering misinformation, promoting public health campaigns, and fostering stronger digital engagement with the community. A formal partnership proposal was also presented to the hospital’s leadership.
In response, Prof. Onche expressed appreciation for the visit and acknowledged the critical role of new media in shaping public perception and combating misinformation.
“Since May, we’ve treated close to 400 outpatients. While we face challenges—especially the delay in receiving essential equipment from the Federal Ministry of Health—we remain focused on delivering top-notch orthopedic care,” he stated.
He commended the Plateau State Governor for supporting the hospital, despite it being a federal institution.
“The governor has gone above and beyond—from infrastructure to basic amenities. His efforts directly benefit the people of Plateau,” Onche added.
The CMD also highlighted the dangers of misinformation and the importance of responsible digital reporting.
“Misinformation can cause lasting damage. That’s why we see you not just as bloggers, but as partners in truth. Together, we can ensure the public gets accurate and positive information,” he said.
Mr. Gideon Nchoka Adamu, Director of Administration, also thanked PLABOMA for initiating the visit and expressed the hospital’s readiness to explore the proposed partnership.
“As the CMD said, we’ll carefully review your proposal. Keep up your good work in promoting truth, peace, and healthy living,” he remarked.
In a closing statement, Audu Alex, PLABOMA’s Secretary of the Board of Trustees, reiterated the influence of digital media in today’s society.
“One credible post can counter misinformation in minutes. Our members are trained professionals committed to supporting institutions like NOHJos,” he said.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to fostering mutual cooperation, with both parties recognizing the critical role digital media plays in strengthening healthcare communication and public trust.
