The Federal Government has expressed satisfaction with the state of infrastructure and level of preparedness at Kumo General Hospital in Gombe State, recently upgraded to a Federal Medical Centre by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
A delegation from the Federal Ministry of Health, led by the Director-General of Hospital Services, Dr. Jimoh Salaudden, visited the facility to assess its readiness for a full federal takeover. Dr. Salaudden, who represented the Minister of Health, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, described the hospital as “impressive and commendable.”
Joined by Gombe State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Habu Dahiru, the team inspected the 200-bed capacity facility, including the operating theater, radiology unit, and administrative offices. The delegation was particularly impressed by the hospital’s modern medical equipment, well-ventilated buildings, and reliable solar power backup system.
“We are truly impressed by the buildings and infrastructure. Everything is thoughtfully designed and in excellent condition,” Dr. Salaudden said. “This facility is close to being fully operational and has the potential to serve as a regional medical hub for the Northeast.”
He added that the transition process was underway, with additional visits planned for the formal handover. This includes staff documentation and integration into the federal civil service. However, he noted that a few requirements still need to be met, including provision of basic utilities, land for future expansion, a formal resolution by the State Executive Council, and legislative endorsement transferring the facility to the Federal Government.
During a courtesy call on the delegation, Gombe State Deputy Governor, Manassah Daniel Jatau, expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for approving the upgrade, noting that it would significantly improve healthcare delivery in the state and surrounding areas.
The visiting team also held discussions with the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi, who emphasized the state’s readiness, highlighting the quality of infrastructure and availability of essential medical equipment.
Traditional ruler, the Lamido Akko, Alhaji Umar Muhammad Atiku, also commended both the Federal and State Governments for the development. He said the transformation of the hospital would have far-reaching socio-economic benefits for the community and assured full local support for the institution’s success.
The formal conversion of Kumo General Hospital into a Federal Medical Centre, as observed by The Trumpet, marks a major milestone in the health sector for Gombe State and is set to elevate the standard of medical services across the Northeast region.