FG commissions eight specialised centres at UMTH

The Federal Government has commissioned eight newly established specialised medical centres at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH), aimed at expanding access to advanced healthcare services in the North-East region.

The Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, presided over the commissioning on Tuesday in Maiduguri during the 110th meeting of the Committee of Chief Medical Directors and Medical Directors of Federal Tertiary Hospitals (CCMDFTH), hosted by UMTH.

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The newly inaugurated facilities include a Heart Centre, Stroke Centre, Neuroscience Centre, Interventional Radiology Centre, CT Scan Centre, and the region’s first Medical ICT Centre.

This development is part of broader efforts to decentralise specialist care and ease the burden on patients who travel long distances for treatment.

In his remarks, the Chief Medical Director of UMTH, Professor Ahmed Ahidjo, described the projects as a critical milestone in the hospital’s service delivery, particularly in a region grappling with insecurity and limited access to tertiary medical care.

“These centres are not just buildings; they are part of a long-term vision to provide quality, affordable, and specialised services for the people of Borno and the entire North-East,” Ahidjo said.

He acknowledged the role of the Federal Ministry of Health in providing the necessary funding and policy support that made the projects possible.

Ahidjo also expressed appreciation to the Borno State Government and other donors, particularly for their support following last year’s flooding, which disrupted hospital operations.

“Governor Babagana Zulum intervened when we needed help the most. He provided essential equipment and funds that helped restore our capacity. That partnership has been invaluable,” the CMD added.

Also speaking at the event, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving healthcare delivery in the state through strategic investments in infrastructure, personnel training, and medical outreach.

The governor announced that the state government has released ₦250 million to support kidney transplant procedures for 80 vulnerable patients at UMTH. He described the hospital’s recent successful kidney transplants as a breakthrough for the region.

“We no longer have to depend entirely on centres outside the region. With UMTH now handling transplant surgeries successfully, we are closer to giving our people the care they deserve,” Zulum said.

He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of Health for their continued commitment to revamping the country’s healthcare sector, especially in conflict-affected and underserved areas.

The event drew Chief Medical Directors and Medical Directors from federal tertiary hospitals across the country. Discussions focused on improving healthcare delivery, strengthening hospital administration, and fostering collaboration among medical institutions.

NIGERIAN TRIBUNE