By Laiatu Augustine Bamaiyi kebbi.
Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State has officially commissioned the newly renovated General Hospital Argungu, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to enhancing healthcare services in the region.
The extensive renovation, which cost ₦973.8 million, is part of a larger initiative to upgrade healthcare infrastructure across the state.
During the commissioning ceremony held on Monday, Gov. Idris emphasized that the revitalization project reflects his administration’s pledge to provide accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare for all citizens.
“This intervention is part of our campaign promises to deliver the dividends of democracy to our people,” he stated.
The General Hospital Argungu is one of six healthcare facilities undergoing comprehensive upgrades, alongside Sir Yahaya Memorial Hospital, the State Teaching Hospital in Kalgo, and General Hospitals in Yauri, Zuru, and Koko.
The projects aim to modernize facilities, equip hospitals with advanced medical technology, and enhance human resources for improved service delivery.
Over the past 18 months, Gov. Idris highlighted significant investments in the health sector, including the upgrade of the Kebbi Medical Centre Kalgo, the review of the Consolidated Medical Salary Scale to address brain drain, the procurement of new ambulances, and the renovation of 13 primary healthcare centers.
He also announced the installation of solar-powered systems in the State Teaching Hospital to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply.
Kebbi State is participating in the World Bank-funded IMPACT project to strengthen primary healthcare services, with a goal of achieving Universal Health Coverage by 2030.
The Governor urged the Ministry of Health and hospital management to maintain the newly upgraded facility properly.
In a notable move, Gov. Idris dismissed the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the renovated hospital, Dr. Emmanuel Ehiem, citing poor service delivery as the reason for his removal. “I received a text from a patient who complained about the condition of the hospital. Upon visiting the hospital at night, I witnessed the situation firsthand,” he lamented.
The Governor directed the Ministry of Health to appoint a competent replacement who can effectively manage the hospital.
The event also featured a donation from the Chairman of Argungu Local Government Area, Hon. Sani Aliyu Gulma, who provided 15 new motorcycles to the local government party executive committee and sewing machines for local women.
The inauguration was attended by various government officials, traditional rulers, and community leaders, all united in their support for the improved healthcare initiative.
