Abuja:The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) Executive Council has given the green light for the immediate construction and equipping of Utako General Hospital. Additionally, comprehensive renovations and upgrades are planned for 14 other general hospitals across the territory.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the announcement was made by Dr. Adedolapo Fasewe, the Mandate Secretary of the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, following a council meeting chaired by the FCT Minister, Mr. Nyesom Wike.
The minister has directed the immediate award of contracts to rehabilitate, upgrade, and fully equip all public secondary health facilities in the territory. A significant aspect of these approvals is the resumption of work on the Utako General Hospital, which had been neglected for years. The project will involve immediate construction, equipping, and staffing of the facility.
Dr. Fasewe emphasized that the overhaul extends beyond structural repairs to include modern medical infrastructure such as new diagnostic equipment, state-of-the-art X-ray machines, and essential surgical instruments for operating theaters. This development is expected to significantly improve healthcare access for residents of the FCT.
The initiative aims to alleviate pressure on existing tertiary health centers in Abuja and expand safety nets for low- and middle-income residents. On the topic of health financing, Dr. Fasewe praised Minister Wike’s dedication to maintaining social health insurance in the capital, noting consistent payments to Health Maintenance Organisations (HMOs) for premiums and capitations.
With upgraded facilities, modern equipment, available personnel, and sustained insurance funding, residents can anticipate quality, affordable, and accessible healthcare in the near future.