UNICEF shows concern as it donates N1bn medical oxygen plant to Bauchi
UNICEF shows concern as it donates N1bn medical oxygen plant to Bauchi
The United Nations Children’s Fund has donated a newly constructed Pressure Swing Absorption Oxygen Plant worth over N1 billion to the Bauchi State Government.
While speaking at the handing over of the facility to the state at the Azare General Hospital, Katagum Local Government in Bauchi on Tuesday, UNICEF Country representative in Nigeria, Christian Munduate, explained that the project could not have been possible without donors like the Government of Canada and IHS Nigeria.
Munduate, while commending the state government for its partnership, noted that the realisation of the oxygen plant represents a remarkable step in UNICEF and development partners’ commitment to improving maternal, newborn and child health in the state and across Nigeria at large.
He said the installation of the medical oxygen plant would ensure that critical life-saving intervention, particularly for newborns and children suffering from pneumonia and other respiratory illnesses could be treated.
He said, “This plant is a beacon of innovation and resilience, promising to save countless lives and provide a model for similar initiatives across the country.
“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.
“As we hand over these investments to the Bauchi State Government, I urge that the L2 Newborn Care unit be staffed by trained healthcare professionals.”
Munduate added that with the inauguration and handing over of the facility, a healthier future for every child in the state is guaranteed.
In his remarks, Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, who was represented by his deputy, Auwal Jatau, thanked UNICEF for its efforts in making the project a reality and its commitment to improving the health and well-being of the people of the state.
“A partnership of this nature propels sustainable development and enhanced healthcare services”, Bala said.
On his part, the state Commissioner for Health, Sani Muhammad, appreciated UNICEF for providing the state with a life-saving facility, saying the project was worth over N1 billion.
He pledged that the state government would do everything in its power to ensure that the facility is highly maintained and protected.
