The Federal Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ekiti State Government to convert and upgrade the Ikole Ekiti Specialist Hospital into a Federal Medical Centre (FMC). This initiative aims to enhance healthcare service delivery across the country.
During the MoU signing at the State Specialist Hospital in Ikole Ekiti, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Tunji Alausa, emphasized that the agreement signifies President Tinubu’s commitment to providing quality and comprehensive healthcare to all Nigerians, regardless of their location. Dr. Alausa highlighted that the establishment of the FMC aligns with the Federal Government’s agenda to decentralize and democratize healthcare, making it accessible to even the most remote communities.
Dr. Alausa explained that the facilities will be upgraded and equipped to offer comprehensive services, training, and research. He commended the Ekiti State Governor for his decision to transfer the state specialist hospital to the federal government, indicating the state’s dedication to improving healthcare infrastructure and services for the people.
“This event marks a significant milestone in our effort to improve healthcare delivery across our nation. It is a testament to our commitment to ensure that every single Nigerian, regardless of their location, has access to quality and comprehensive healthcare,” Dr. Alausa stated.
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Governor Biodun Oyebanji expressed his deepest gratitude to the President for approving the FMC in Ekiti. He emphasized that delivering quality healthcare to the people has always been a top priority of his administration, which led to the state’s decision to sign the MoU with the Federal Ministry of Health. The Governor highlighted that the tertiary facility represents hope for patients with illnesses beyond the capacity of secondary healthcare, providing comfort for families and increasing the possibility of a healthier future for many citizens.
Governor Oyebanji expressed confidence that the initiative would bridge healthcare gaps and provide affordable and quality healthcare to the people of Ikole-Ekiti and its environs. He noted that the FMC would attract skilled healthcare professionals to the region, fostering a better healthcare environment. Additionally, the FMC is expected to stimulate local economies through job creation and the growth of supporting industries such as pharmaceuticals, medical supplies, and housing, benefiting local businesses and leading to economic development and poverty reduction.
The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oyebanji Filani, revealed that the upgrade of the hospital to an FMC brings the number of tertiary medical facilities in the state to four. He commended the federal government for approving the facility upgrade, adding that it would have both direct and indirect impacts on the lives of people in the area and neighboring states such as Kogi and Kwara.
