The Chief Medical Director of the Plateau State Specialist Hospital, Jos, Professor Christopher Sabo Yilgwan, has celebrated his 50th birthday in a reflective ceremony held within the hospital premises, bringing together management, staff, patients, childhood friends, and other December-born celebrants.
Speaking at the event, Prof. Yilgwan expressed profound gratitude to God for the gift of life, recounting his humble beginnings. He revealed that he was born prematurely and spent his first three months in an incubator, describing the hospital as a place that has remained central to his life’s journey.
“From birth till today, my life has revolved around the hospital. I was admitted at birth, and since then my life has been in the hospital. It feels only right to celebrate my birthday in a place that represents God’s preservation over my life,” he said.
The Chief Medical Director appreciated the hospital management and staff for their unwavering support and reaffirmed his commitment to advancing the institution. He assured that efforts would continue to ensure the delivery of quality and affordable healthcare services to citizens.
“My desire is to move this hospital forward. Together, we will continue to provide quality healthcare services to our people at an affordable cost,” he added.
In a goodwill message, a childhood friend of the celebrant and Deputy Comptroller of the Nigerian Immigration Service, Mr. Edward Dawam, reflected on their early years and shared fond childhood memories. He described Prof. Yilgwan as a principled and cheerful individual whose life journey stands as a testimony of God’s grace. He also encouraged patients not to lose hope, noting that the celebrant himself once began life as a hospital patient and is today a living testimony.
The Head of Department, Nursing Services, Mrs. Lami Chiroma, officiated the cake-cutting ceremony, offering prayers from Psalm 34:4 and declaring that the heart desires of the celebrant would not be cut short.
Highlights of the event included special prayers, candle blowing, fireworks, group photographs, and goodwill messages from staff and management.
Dignitaries in attendance included the Head of Clinical Services, Dr. Saidu Barnabas; Director of Administration, Mr. Jacob Dung Bot; Head of Planning, Research and Statistics, Dr. Bulus Jonathan; Legal Officer, Barrister Tani Lukden; as well as doctors, nurses on duty, members of KOSA, and other hospital staff.
