JUTH KICKS OFF 2026 CHIEF MEDICAL DIRECTOR’S ANNUAL SPORTS TOURNAMENT (JUCAST) IN GRAND STYLE.
By Peter Azi – Jos
The Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) has officially commenced its 2026 Chief Medical Director’s Annual Sports Tournament (JUCAST), with an opening ceremony held at the Hospital’s catering hall car park.
The event, which brought together members of the Hospital’s Management, invited guests, and staff representatives from various departments, underscores JUTH’s commitment to promoting physical fitness, staff wellness, teamwork, and institutional unity through sporting activities.
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The ceremony commenced with the National Anthem and opening prayer, followed by the introduction of invited guests and dignitaries. The arrival of the Chief Medical Director, Dr. Pokop Wushipba Bupwatda, alongside other members of the Hospital’s top Management, further highlighted the significance of the occasion.
In his welcome address, the Chairman of the Sports Committee, Dr. Samuel Iyanro, emphasized the importance of sports in promoting staff welfare, strengthening departmental relationships, and fostering a healthy and productive work environment.
A major highlight of the ceremony was the colourful march-past by participating departments, which showcased the enthusiasm, team spirit, and collective commitment of staff members towards the tournament.
Addressing the participants, the Chief Medical Director, Dr. Bupwatda, encouraged staff to embrace the spirit of sportsmanship, healthy competition, and unity. He subsequently declared the 2026 JUCAST officially open through the symbolic lighting of the tournament torch.
The opening ceremony also featured the Departmental Captains’ Oath, administered by the Head of the Legal Department, Barr. Mildred Kudeng, reaffirming the importance of discipline, fairness, and integrity throughout the competition.
Adding colour and excitement to the event was a novelty egg race competition involving Heads of Departments (HODs), which provided an opportunity for management-level participation and light-hearted sporting engagement.
The ceremony concluded with a group photograph and a vote of thanks by the Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee (CMAC), Dr. Njem Miner, while the Police Band provided musical accompaniment for the National Anthem at the conclusion of the programme.
Beyond the excitement of sporting competition, the 2026 JUCAST is expected to strengthen interpersonal relationships, encourage healthy lifestyles, and promote collaboration across the Hospital’s various departments.
Through this annual initiative, JUTH continues to recognize that a healthy workforce is an essential pillar of effective healthcare delivery, institutional productivity, and organisational growth.
DemocracyNewslineNewspaper November 11th, 2026
