Leadership & Milestone
The strength of Franca Memorial Hospital lies not only in its history but in the passionate individuals who have carried that vision forward. Our leadership is defined by service, humility and a firm commitment to community-focused healthcare.
Founder
Late Mrs. Franca Theresa Obi
A pioneering nurse and midwife, Mrs.Theresa Obi founded Franca Memorial Maternity in 1975. Her work began with one room, one bed and an unwavering heart for the vulnerable. She retired as a Chief Nursing Officer from the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital in 1995 but her life’s mission of delivering babies and serving the less privileged never stopped. Her legacy includes not only medical care but the mentoring of over 500 young women and direct humanitarian services to orphanages, elderly homes and underserved families.
Medical Doctor
Dr. Obinna
The hospital’s transformation into a fully operational medical center began under the leadership of Dr. Obinna, her son. Having studied medicine at Windsor University School of Medicine, St. Kitts & Nevis, and trained across several global and Nigerian institutions, Dr. Obinna took full leadership of the clinic in 2013. His vision and expertise propelled FMH to hospital status by 2025, growing the team, modernizing facilities and expanding services without losing the community-first identity of the institution.
He is not just a medical doctor but a continuation of the founder’s humanitarian legacy — combining international medical standards with grassroots compassion.
Key Milestones
1975
Franca Memorial Maternity is founded by Mrs.Theresa Obi in a one-room facility in Ogbunabali, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
2013
Dr. Obinna assumes full leadership of the clinic, introducing new medical protocols, staff development, and digital record-keeping.
1995
Founder retires as Chief Nursing Officer from UTPH but continues to run the maternity with even more focus and personal sacrifice.
2025
Official transition from a clinic to a fully licensed hospital, rebranded as Franca Memorial Hospital (FMH), with over 20 staff members and expanded departments.
2007
The maternity evolves into a clinic under the professional covering of Dr. Ndubuisi odebeatu, expanding services and introducing structured clinical practice.
Your Health Comes First
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