Bukola Afeni
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to rebuilding the country’s healthcare system.
Speaking at the National Hospital’s Silver Jubilee Symposium and tree-planting event in Abuja, she emphasized the hospital’s vital role in providing quality and affordable healthcare to all Nigerians.
“As we look to the future, we urge the staff of the National Hospital to remain resilient and strive for excellence.
This will enable us to continue making a positive impact on the lives of many who seek quality medical care.”
The First Lady also announced that the hospital’s trauma center would be named after former First Lady Miriam Abacha, in honor of her contribution to the hospital’s establishment.
Professor Muhammad Raji Mahmud, Chief Medical Director of the National Hospital, highlighted the hospital’s achievements over the past year and a half, including the digitalization of its pharmacy, improved water and power supply, and the repair of critical medical equipment.
The hospital has also collaborated with international partners, including the Japanese government, which donated a city scan machine to the hospital.
While the service will not be entirely free, Professor Mahmud assured that it would be heavily subsidized, making high-end medical tests more accessible to Nigerians.
“We no longer have to travel abroad for medical care. However, our challenges include funding, power, and manpower. We urge philanthropists and well-meaning Nigerians to support us in addressing these challenges”, he said.
