Kano: The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) in collaboration with IHS Nigeria, and the governments of Canada and Norway, inaugurated a new medical oxygen plant at the Muhammadu Buhari Specialist Hospital, handing it over to the Kano State Government. Mr. Dapo Otunla, Vice President of IHS Nigeria, represented the Chief Executive Officer at the event, highlighting that the facility is part of a broader national initiative aimed at enhancing oxygen supply to hospitals across the country.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, this project is a significant step in a partnership announced in 2022 between IHS Nigeria and UNICEF. The initiative is designed to bolster the treatment of pneumonia, COVID-19, and other hypoxia-related disorders, especially among vulnerable populations like newborns and pregnant women. Otunla noted that the facility in Kano is one of nine plants installed throughout Nigeria, with others located in Rivers, Bauchi, Kaduna, Ebonyi, Cross River, and Yobe States.
Otunla shared that the plants began operations in March 2024 and have successfully produced over 103,000 liters of medical oxygen, catering to approximately 1,500 to 2,500 patients each month. He emphasized that the programme not only provides infrastructure but also focuses on training healthcare workers in administering oxygen therapy effectively and safely. He reiterated IHS Nigeria's commitment to sustainability and societal impact through initiatives like this, which align with Sustainable Development Goal 3-good health and well-being.
UNICEF's Representative in Nigeria, Mrs. Wafaa Sa'eed, expressed gratitude towards IHS Nigeria and the governments of Canada and Norway for their support. Sa'eed highlighted the significance of oxygen as a life-saving resource and underscored the project's impact on children and critical care patients. She also pointed out the plant's reliance on solar energy, making it a sustainable solution amidst challenges like climate change and high fuel costs.
The Kano State Government's dedication to health and education was commended by Sa'eed, who stressed that human capital development is key to prosperity. She pledged continued collaboration with government entities to expand this initiative to more regions.
Dr. Abubakar Labaran, the Commissioner for Health, also expressed appreciation for the project. Represented by Permanent Secretary Aminu Bashir, he reaffirmed the state government's commitment to improving healthcare services.