By Precious Oham
Federal Government and Ekiti State Government on Friday signed the Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, to upgrade the State Specialist Hospital in Ikole-Ekiti to a Federal Medical Centre.
The colourful ceremony was witnessed by residents of the area in Ikole-Ekiti including traditional rulers, religious leaders, top government functionaries, local governments chairmen, among others.
In his address, the Minister of State for Health, Tunji Alausa said the move by the FG to upgrade the hospital underscores the unwavering commitment of the President Bola Tinubu towards the well-being of Nigerians.
He commended the Ekiti State government for prioritizing the healthcare of the masses noting that it is a clear indication of the administration dedication to improving health status of residents.
His words: “Today’s event mark a significant milestone in our collective efforts to improve healthcare delivery across the nation. It’s a testament to our commitment to ensure every Nigerian has access to quality and comprehensive healthcare.
“This decision underscores his unwavering dedication to the health and well-being of all Nigerians. The establishment of this FMC arrives perfectly with the President’s agenda to decentralized and democratized healthcare, making it accessible to even the remote community.
“I like to commend the government and people of Ekiti State for their foresight and prioritization of healthcare. The decision to cead this hospital for use by your government is a clear indication of the administration dedication to improving the healthcare services in Ekiti State.”
On his part, Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji hailed President Tinubu for ensuring that the hospital is upgraded, saying that it signifies crucial step in addressing the healthcare need of residents of Ikole-Ekiti and its environs.
“The handover of the State Specialist Hospital in Ikole-Ekiti signifies a crucial step in addressing the healthcare need for Ikole-Ekiti and Ekiti State as a whole. The presence of a federal tertiary hospital in Ikole-Ekiti represents hope for patients beyond the capacity of a secondary facility and builds comfort for families in distress and increasing the possibility of healthier future for citizens within the State.
“We aim to ensure that the people of Ikole-Ekiti and its environs receive access to affordable and quality healthcare that they require.
The presence of the FMC in Ikole-Ekiti will significantly benefit surrounding towns including those in neighbouring states.
“The introduction of advance healthcare services will address the pressing medical needs of these communities, reduce the distant needs to travel to access medical care.”
Speaking on behalf of the people of Ikole-Ekiti, some traditional rulers and chiefs in the area including the Asolo of Ikole-Ekiti, High Chief Olu Ogunsakin and second in command to Elekole of Ikole, High Chief Oluwasayo Okunola, the olotin of Ikole Ekiti commended the federal and state governments for deeming it worthy to upgrade the hospital.
High Chief Ogunsakin said: “We thank the governor for what he is doing in Ikole. I appreciate President Tinubu for approving this FMC for Ikole and Ekiti State. It will transform the healthcare of our people and neighbouring states.”
According to High Chief Okunola, “It has been a big challenge for us to run to Ado and Ido for urgent cases but this development will upgrade everything. We thank everybody that is involved in it.”