Minna general hospital outdated, unsafe -Niger gov

The Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago, has declared a state of emergency on the Minna General Hospital saying the health facility is unfit to take care of patients.

Bago made this known on Monday during the State Executive Council meeting, during which he said the hospital, which was built over 50 years ago, has deteriorated significantly and is no longer fit to serve the medical needs of the state’s growing population.

In a statement on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Print Media, Aisha Wakaso, the governor revealed that he paid an unscheduled visit to the hospital, where he observed that the bench he sat on at the eye centre had been there since he was a child.

“We have to be honest with ourselves. The General Hospital Minna, in its present condition, can no longer serve its purpose. It is overstretched, outdated, and unsafe.

What we need now is a modern, functional, and efficient health facility that reflects our vision for a healthier Niger State,” the governor stated.

According to Bago, the hospital has been overstretched for many years, and its current state poses a serious challenge to effective healthcare delivery in the capital and beyond.

Following the declaration of the state of emergency, the governor constituted a committee of special advisers and relevant stakeholders to carry out a full assessment of the hospital and propose practical solutions.

Plans are now underway to demolish the current structure and begin the reconstruction of new units and wards in phases.

“During the period of reconstruction, essential departments and services will be temporarily relocated to select primary healthcare centres across the state to ensure continuity in care.

“This decision is part of a broader plan to revamp the entire healthcare sector in Niger State, ensuring that citizens have access to quality and dignified medical services.

“Our administration is committed to building systems that work. Health is a priority, and we are determined to ensure that people feel the impact of government through visible improvements in healthcare delivery,” the governor said.