By Beatrice Gondyi, Bauchi
Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed of Bauchi State has flagged off the ₦19.99 billion comprehensive rehabilitation and upgrade of the Bauchi State Specialist Hospital, a landmark project aimed at transforming healthcare delivery and strengthening medical infrastructure across the state.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony held at the hospital premises in Bauchi, Governor Mohammed described the initiative as “the zenith of infrastructural integration in the health sector,” reaffirming his administration’s commitment to modern, accessible, and affordable healthcare for all citizens.
The project, to be executed within one year by Architectronic Engineering Limited, encompasses a full renovation and expansion of hospital facilities, construction of 130 residential units for medical staff, and installation of advanced medical equipment and digital record systems. It will also include environmental improvements such as roads, drainage, fencing, landscaping, and solar-powered lighting, alongside the establishment of specialized care units and modern operating theatres.
To ensure continuous medical service during the upgrade, the state government has established temporary facilities within Bauchi metropolis to accommodate critical departments such as maternity, surgery, immunization, and ART services.
Governor Mohammed highlighted key achievements in the health sector since he declared a state of emergency upon assuming office, including the consistent allocation of over 15% of the annual budget to health, recruitment of over 3,000 health workers, and financial support for 3,000 students under the pre-service scheme — with 400 of them studying medicine.
He also cited the restoration of accreditation for health training institutions, particularly the Aliko Dangote College of Nursing, which has recorded a 100% pass rate for five consecutive years. Additionally, the governor revealed that the Drug Management and Medical Consumables Agency has been recapitalized with ₦500 million over the past two years, and discussions are underway with a Tunisian firm to establish a drug and food manufacturing company serving the Northeast region.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Sani Muhammad Dambam, lauded the governor’s reforms, noting a sharp decline in maternal mortality rates — from over 1,000 to 382 deaths per 100,000 women — and an increase in immunization coverage from 31% to 51%.
The Bauchi State Government expressed appreciation to its development partners, including WHO, UNICEF, USAID, UKAID, MSF, and the Red Cross, as well as traditional rulers, community leaders, and health professionals for their continuous support.
Upon completion, the upgraded Bauchi Specialist Hospital is expected to serve as a premier referral and teaching center in the Northeast, reinforcing the administration’s vision of a healthier and more prosperous Bauchi State.
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