Governor Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger State has described the Minna General Hospital as outdated and hazardous, declaring a state of emergency on the health facility due to its deteriorated condition.
The governor made the declaration during a State Executive Council meeting held on Monday, expressing deep concern over the hospital’s inability to meet the healthcare demands of residents.
He revealed that the hospital, which was established over five decades ago, is now critically overstretched and poses a risk to both patients and staff.
Speaking further through a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Print Media, Aisha Wakaso, Bago shared details of an unscheduled visit he made to the hospital, where he was struck by the lack of infrastructural improvement.
“I sat on a bench at the eye centre that has been there since I was a child,” he recalled. “This hospital, in its current state, is no longer fit for purpose. It is outdated, overstretched, and simply unsafe.”
He emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive overhaul, stating: “What we need is a modern, functional, and efficient hospital that aligns with our vision for a healthier Niger State.”
The governor announced the constitution of a special committee comprising advisers and key stakeholders to conduct a thorough assessment of the hospital and recommend actionable solutions. Plans are also in motion to commence phased demolition and reconstruction of the facility.
“New structures and wards will be built in stages,” Bago disclosed. “To ensure patients continue to receive care during this period, some services will be temporarily moved to selected primary healthcare centres across the state.”
He noted that the decision was part of a broader strategy to revitalize the entire healthcare sector in the state.
“Our goal is to build a health system that truly works. We are committed to ensuring that people can feel the impact of governance through improved healthcare delivery,” he affirmed.
The Minna General Hospital has long served as the primary referral centre in the state capital, but public outcry over its declining state has intensified in recent years.
The governor’s declaration signals a turning point in efforts to provide quality and dignified medical services to Niger residents.
