Ekiti FMC to bridge healthcare gap, says Oyebanji
Biodun Oyebanji, the governor of Ekiti State, has stated that upgrading State Specialist Hospital, Ikole Ekiti to Federal Medical Centre is a critical step in addressing the healthcare requirements of Ikole Ekiti and the entire state.The governor spoke in Ikole Ekiti on Friday at the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Federal Ministry of Health and its Ekiti State counterpart for the transfer of SSH Ikole Ekiti to the Federal Government for conversion to FMC.
Oyebanji stated that "The presence of a Federal Tertiary Hospital in Ikole-Ekiti represents hope for patients battling illnesses beyond the capacity of secondary health care, brings comfort for families in distress and increases the possibility of a healthier future for many more citizens within the state" .
The governor signed on behalf of the state government, while Dr. Tunji Alausa, Minister of State for Health, signed on behalf of the federal government.
Later that day, the governor commissioned the Abiyamo Esther Maternity Ward (Mother and Child Building), which he built in remembrance of his mother at the General Hospital in Aramoko, Ekiti, where he was born.
Oyebanji told the audience at the MOU event, which included government officials, traditional rulers, indigenes, and Ekiti residents, that "through this partnership, we aim to bridge the gaps, ensuring that the people of Ikole Ekiti and its environs receive access to affordable and quality healthcare that they require."
He stated that FMC would introduce modern healthcare services to address the urgent medical requirements of the communities, minimising the distance needed to travel to get quality medical treatment.
He stated, "This accessibility is critical for emergency situations, chronic illness management, and routine health check-ups."
"The FMC would bring skilled healthcare personnel to the region, resulting in a better healthcare environment. This influx would improve the overall quality of care, resulting in better health outcomes and longer life expectancy for the local population.
"Additionally, the presence of an FMC would serve as a training ground for medical students and health professionals, promoting continuous learning and improvement in medical practices."
The governor went on to say, "Economically, the development of FMC in Ikole Ekiti will promote local economies by creating jobs and expanding supporting sectors such as pharmaceuticals, medical supplies, and housing. Local companies would benefit from the increased demand for goods and services, resulting in economic growth and poverty alleviation."
Oyebanji congratulated President Bola Tinubu for including Ekiti State among the four states with new FMCs, and he urged people and traditional rulers of Ikole Ekiti and its environs to do everything possible to secure the safety of lives and property in the area.
Dr. Alausa, Minister of State for Health, stated that the upgrade of the SSH to FMC in Ikole Ekiti was "part of efforts to ensure our people have access to quality healthcare and ensuring Universal Health Coverage".
Alausa hailed the effort as a transfer of not only riches, but also potential and hope to the people of Ekiti state.
The minister informed the people that the FMC will bring tertiary medical care to Ekiti State. Priority would be given to Ikole Ekiti and Ekiti State in job opportunities."
He stated that one of the benefits of the FMC will be the construction of a nursing school, as directed by the Chief Medical Director.
Alausa praised Tinubu for authorising the upgrading that made the FMC viable in Ekiti State.
Dr. Oyebanji Filani, Ekiti State Commissioner for Health, greeted the governor, minister, and guests to the event, stating that the current administration in the state prioritises healthcare delivery and the welfare of health and medical personnel, which has improved service delivery.
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