A multi-billion Naira life-saving medical oxygen plant and Level 2 Newborn Unit constructed by UNICEF for newborns and children suffering from pneumonia and other respiratory illnesses at the General Hospital Azare, has been officially handed over to the Bauchi State Government for use,
Medical oxygen is a vital component in healthcare particularly respiratory tracks and a key in addressing life-threatening maternal and newborn emergencies.
The UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, Ms. Cristian Munduate, who performed the official handover ceremony at General Hospital Azare, Bauchi State, Tuesday, said that the oxygen plant is a beacon of innovation and resilience, assuring that it will save countless lives and provide a model for similar initiatives across the country.
She said: “This milestone represents a remarkable step forward in our shared commitment to improving maternal, newborn and child health in Bauchi State and across Nigeria.
“Firstly, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Government of Bauchi State for their unwavering support and collaboration. I also express deepest appreciation to our donors, IHS Nigeria and the Governments of Canada for this partnership.
“This is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together towards a common goal – ensuring the health and well-being of every child and every mother in this state.
“Additionally, the Level 2 Newborn Unit established here at General Hospital Azare is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. This unit will significantly reduce neonatal mortality rates and improve health outcomes for our youngest and most vulnerable population.
“The significance of these developments cannot be overstated. According to recent data, Nigeria has one of the highest rates of neonatal mortality globally. Investments in healthcare infrastructure, like the facilities being commissioned today, are crucial in reversing this trend.
“They demonstrate a firm commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.
“Your Excellency, as we hand over these investments to the Bauchi State Government, I urged that the L2 Newborn Care unit be staffed by trained healthcare professionals.
“Availability of professionals dedicated to providing specialised care for premature and critically ill newborns we are confident that they will be maintained and utilised effectively to maximise their impact.”
The UNICEF Country Representative maintained that UNICEF remains committed to supporting the government in the endeavour through continuous capacity building, provision of technical expertise, and monitoring progress.
“Today, we celebrate more than just the inauguration of new facilities; we celebrate hope, progress, and the promise of a healthier future for every child in Bauchi State. We look forward to witnessing the positive changes that these facilities will bring to the lives of many families and the entire populace.
“Together, we will continue to work towards a world where every child has the chance to survive, thrive and lead healthy and productive lives.” Cristian Munduate added
In her remark, The National Oxygen Desk, Federal Ministry of Health, stated that the commissioning of the event marks a significant milestone in the march towards the collective effort to ensure that medical oxygen is available and reaches those who need it the most.
Her words: “On behalf of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare I extend a sincere gratitude to UNICEF for this investment and the belief in this Country, which has facilitated the success of this project. UNICEF has further trained the plant engineers, and the administrators on the management of this plant.
“As you know, medical oxygen is a life-saving, essential medicine and it is required at all levels of the healthcare system for treatment of a variety of medical conditions including respiratory illnesses, pneumonia, complications of childbirth e.t.c.
“High quality medical Oxygen is therefore non-negotiable. Unfortunately, lack of access to reliable medical oxygen has troubled the healthcare system in many developing countries, including parts of Nigeria.
“This PSA Oxygen Plant is of advantage because oxygen can be produced on-site and, in the quantity, and quality preferred. No more waiting for external supplies, rather a safe oxygen for medical use is at our doorstep and will be available to Azare, Itas-Gadau, Jama’are, Gadam Misau and the neighboring states of Yobe and Kano.
“Today, this project is being handed over to the Bauchi State Government, which means that the responsibility to ensure optimal utilisation and sustainability is with the State Government.”
FMOH&SW advised the state government to open a dedicated account for the PSA plant sustainability and maintenance as directed by the National Council of Health 2023 (Ekiti declaration), ensure training of more Biomedical engineers/ technicians on the operationalisation of the plant and other medical equipment and facilitate more Healthcare workers training on oxygen utilisation as well as provide convenience (toilets) for the Staff.
She assured that the FMOH&SW remain committed to continue working with you to guidance and capacity building, where necessary.
In his speech, the State Governor, Senator Bala Abdukadir Mohammed, expressed gratitude to UNICEF for its unwavering efforts in making the project a reality and its commitment in improving the health and well-being of the people of the state.
Segun Awofadeji
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