FG plans 7,000 digital hospitals for rural areas – Minister
The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, revealed that the Federal Government intends to set up 7,000 digital hospitals in rural areas.
He shared this information on Wednesday in Abuja during the launch of a digital hospital and school in the Ibwa 2 community situated in Gwagwalada, Federal Capital Territory.
The Minister mentioned that President Bola Tinubu has instructed the establishment of 7,000 digital healthcare centers to enhance access in underserved regions.
He pointed out that approximately 20 million people living in rural parts currently lack access to these vital health services.
“Nigeria has chosen to invest in 7,000 of these facilities for healthcare.
“There are around 20 million individuals who are unable to benefit from what we, who reside in urban areas or those closer to cities, currently enjoy.
“Of that 20 million, more than 80% belong to northern Nigeria.
“This is why the President has insisted that we must allocate funds to ensure that this opportunity is available not just for those in urban settings but to cover all regions in the north with this equipment.
“Our aim is to provide this opportunity to our citizens, no matter where they are located,” he added.
He explained that this initiative, implemented in collaboration with Globacom Nigeria and Huawei Technologies Nigeria, plans to offer a variety of digital services to over 12,000 residents in the targeted community and nearby areas.
He also noted that the 7,000 digital hospitals and schools are projected to serve 80% of the 20 million underserved individuals, most of whom live in northern Nigeria.
During a demonstration of the digital facilities, the Minister participated in live online discussions with a doctor in Abuja and a teacher in Lagos.
He promised that all 7,000 digital healthcare and education initiatives would be completed by the end of the year.
A total of 125 smartphones were distributed to the community through the village chief, allowing residents to utilize the services offered by the facility. Furthermore, free WiFi has been provided to facilitate connectivity.
Earlier, the Managing Director of Huawei Technologies Nigeria, Terrens Wu, expressed his satisfaction with the partnership, stating that it will promote rural development and improve economic opportunities for local residents.
Mr. Wu expressed hope that the project would enhance financial inclusion and invigorate economic activities within the community.
He also reiterated Huawei’s dedication to driving transformation in both rural and urban areas across Nigeria.
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