*Commissions Sahad Hospitals in Abuja, Describes Mijinyawa as a Trustworthy Businessman By Awwal Umar Kontagora Vice President Senator Kas...
*Commissions Sahad Hospitals in Abuja, Describes Mijinyawa as a Trustworthy Businessman
By Awwal Umar Kontagora
Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima has announced that the federal government’s health sector reforms have already attracted over $4.8 billion in potential investments, signaling a significant step towards revitalizing Nigeria's healthcare system.
Speaking on Saturday at the commissioning and grand opening of Sahad Hospitals in Abuja, Senator Shettima outlined the administration's comprehensive strategy to address longstanding challenges and propel Nigeria's healthcare system into the future.
"Our health sector calls upon us all to unite. The promise of this day is one we cannot overlook. It is through such collaboration and shared dedication that we can guarantee every Nigerian receives the care and support they deserve," he declared.
The Vice President noted that the health sector reforms under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu are anchored on a robust roadmap designed to tackle persistent issues that have plagued the system for decades.
"This administration’s ambitious health sector reforms, which have already attracted over $4.8 billion in potential investments, signal a strong commitment to revitalizing our healthcare system," Shettima said. "These reforms are anchored on a comprehensive roadmap designed to address longstanding challenges, with four key pillars: transforming healthcare governance, improving population health outcomes, unlocking the healthcare value chain, and strengthening health security."
Detailing the government's strategy, Senator Shettima highlighted initiatives launched by the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, saying, "We are boosting domestic production of essential medical supplies and drugs and strengthening primary healthcare by doubling the number of fully functional centres across the nation."
The Vice President acknowledged the challenges that remain, lamenting that "Nigerians continue to grapple with pressing healthcare challenges, such as surging costs of medicines, long hospital waiting times, and a shortage of health workers."
He emphasized that the full impact of the reforms, particularly in improving access to quality healthcare, hinges on private sector involvement.
"Our private sector is a critical part of the solution, especially in the face of the long-standing brain drain among our medical workforce," he explained. "Investing in the health sector engages the talents and skills of our citizens, generating numerous job opportunities for graduates and technicians. This is a notable aspect of our national development narrative."
Senator Shettima revealed that the National Economic Council (NEC), which he chairs, has prioritized investments in developing Nigeria's human capital, with health and nutrition being key thematic areas.
"Each of our state governors is fully on board. We have all acknowledged that no nation can optimize its opportunities without investing in its healthcare, and for us, this is only the beginning," he assured.
Reiterating the administration's commitment, the Vice President said, "We welcome this intervention, not just because it aligns with the agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has demonstrated his commitment to unlocking Nigeria's healthcare value chain, but also because of its far-reaching implications for our national development. We stand prepared to move forward together into the future, and I assure you that the government will continue to be your steadfast partner in this effort to serve the nation and humanity, with full support to achieve our shared goals."
The Vice President also described the Chairman/Founder of Sahad Group of Companies, Alhaji Ibrahim Mijinyawa, as a trustworthy businessman, recounting how he intervened when Sahad Stores Ltd was locked up by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC).
"When the FCCPC locked up his store, I had to call the head of the agency to say, 'Please, reopen the store before you come and tell me what happened'. I did so because I know how helpful Sahad Stores is to many Nigerians," Shettima stated. "Alhaji Mijinyawa is a very good man. He has used his business to touch many lives. If he were selfish, he would have kept his wealth for himself and his family alone, but he has chosen to continue helping humanity. I had many engagements this weekend, but I prioritized this event because I believe we should support a person who is working for the cause of humanity. We all need to support him."
Deputy Senate President and Chairman of the occasion, Senator Barau Jibrin, also praised Alhaji Mijinyawa for his philanthropy and commitment to providing quality services to the less privileged. Represented by Senator Garba Musa Maidoki, he expressed confidence that Sahad Hospitals will serve both high- and low-income Nigerians and urged the hospital authorities to collaborate with NGOs that finance medical services for the less privileged.
The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Tunji Alausa, commended the Chairman of Sahad Hospitals, noting that the facility marks a new chapter in healthcare in Nigeria and exemplifies what can be achieved when public-spirited individuals invest in the health of their fellow citizens.
"The commissioning of this 200-bed Sahad Hospital is a testament to the unwavering commitment of a private citizen. Alhaji Mijinyawa has taken a bold step to complement the federal government's efforts to improve quality healthcare for citizens," Dr. Alausa said. He added that the challenges facing healthcare today are multifaceted, requiring innovative efforts from both the government and private sector.
In his remarks, the Vice Chairman of Sahad Hospital, Dr. Shamsuddeen Aliyu, described the hospital as a state-of-the-art facility committed to providing quality healthcare and upholding the well-being of those it serves. "This hospital represents more than just a physical structure; it embodies a vision for a healthier future where everyone has access to comprehensive and compassionate care," he said.
Dr. Aliyu highlighted the hospital's capacity, which includes 200 beds, seven operating theatres, 13 dialysis machines, and 10 ICU beds, stating, "Our team has worked tirelessly to ensure that every aspect of the hospital—from design to equipment—is centered around patients' needs."
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