Jigawa State has advanced its healthcare reform agenda as Governor Umar Namadi performed the foundation-laying ceremony for three state-of-the-art medical facilities, a Diagnostic Centre, Cardiac Centre, and Cryo-Oxygen Plant, in Fanisau, Dutse.
The projects, which will cost several billions of naira, are part of the administration’s vision to turn Dutse into a regional hub for health tourism.
At the foundation-laying ceremony, Governor Namadi described the event as a historic milestone in the state’s development journey.
He noted that the facilities were designed to enhance the state’s capacity to deliver quality healthcare and reduce dependency on external services for specialized treatments.
Namadi emphasized that the projects align with his broader human capital development agenda, which prioritizes healthcare and education.
The governor cited achievements such as the coverage of over 143,000 vulnerable citizens under the Community Health Insurance Scheme and the revitalization of both primary and secondary healthcare services.
Malam Namadi explained that while the initial funding would come directly from state coffers, the long-term plan is to operate the centres under a public-private partnership model.
He said this approach would ensure both sustainability and efficiency, eliminating the need for residents to seek services like MRI and mammography in other states.
Highlighting innovation, Malam Namadi revealed that the Cryo-Oxygen Plant will produce 100% pure medical oxygen and commercial-grade nitrogen, creating additional value for Nigeria’s fertilizer industry.
He added that oxygen will be distributed using eco-friendly electric vehicles, supporting the state’s green energy agenda.
The governor also spoke on other ongoing health investments, including the near-completion of the Orthopaedic Hospital in Gumel, specialist hospitals in Hadejia and Kazaure, and the expansion of free dialysis services.
He disclosed that the government has now approved free treatment for diabetic, hypertensive, and sickle cell patients.
In terms of workforce development, Governor Namadi announced the recruitment of over 920 primary healthcare workers and 200 clinical staff, along with 1,000 ad-hoc workers.
He urged healthcare professionals to demonstrate commitment and warned that indiscipline in service delivery would no longer be tolerated.
The Governor appreciated the key development partners such as UNICEF, WHO, USAID, FCDO, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, as well as traditional and religious leaders for their continued support in health advocacy across Jigawa State.
Usman Mohammed Zaria
