By Victor Akinkuolie,  Ado-Ekiti

|

In a bid to improve healthcare services across the country, 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).

Speaking at the MoU signing event held at the State Specialist Hospital, Ikole Ekiti amidst jubilation, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Tunji Alausa, said the MoU was a testament to President Tinubu’s commitment to ensuring that every Nigerian, regardless of their location, has access to quality and comprehensive healthcare.

He stated that the establishment of the Federal Medical Centre aligns with the Federal Government’s agenda to decentralize and democratize healthcare, making it more accessible to even the most remote communities in the country.

The Minister explained that the facilities will be upgraded and equipped to provide comprehensive services, training, and research.

Commending the Governor for his decision to hand over the state specialist hospital for use as a federal medical centre, the Minister said it is a clear indication that the state government is dedicated to improving healthcare infrastructure and services for the people of the state.

In his remarks, Governor Biodun Oyebanji expressed his deepest gratitude to the President for approving the Federal Medical Centre in Ekiti, emphasizing 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 explained that the Federal Tertiary Hospital in Ikole-Ekiti represents hope for patients battling illnesses beyond the capacity of secondary healthcare, brings comfort to families in distress, and increases the possibility of a healthier future for many more citizens within the state.

Expressing confidence that the initiative would bridge healthcare gaps and provide affordable and quality healthcare to the people of Ikole Ekiti and its environs, the Governor said the FMC would also attract skilled healthcare professionals to the region, fostering a better healthcare environment.

The Governor further revealed that the FMC would stimulate local economies through job creation and the growth of supporting industries such as pharmaceuticals, medical supplies, and housing. He said local businesses would benefit from the increased demand for goods and services, leading to economic development and poverty reduction.