Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has approved the immediate completion and equipping of the long-abandoned Utako General Hospital. This move is part of a major overhaul of healthcare facilities across the territory. The project aims to improve access to healthcare and reduce pressure on tertiary health institutions in the capital.
The Mandate Secretary, Health Services and Environment Secretariat (HSES), Dr Adedolapo Fasawe, disclosed this information after the 19th FCT Executive Council meeting. She stated that the Executive Council deliberated extensively on the state of healthcare delivery in the territory before approving the comprehensive intervention. The renovation, rehabilitation, and upgrading of all 14 existing general hospitals in the FCT have also been approved.
The upgrade will involve a comprehensive overhaul of infrastructure and the provision of state-of-the-art medical equipment. This includes advanced diagnostic machines, X-ray machines, and modern surgical equipment for operating theatres. The FCT Administration has also maintained consistent payment to Health Maintenance Organisations (HMOs) for premium and capitation under the territory’s health insurance scheme.
On the Utako General Hospital, Fasawe said Wike had directed the immediate resumption of work on the abandoned project, its full equipping, and the deployment of medical personnel to enable the facility to commence operations. The planned intervention covers primary and secondary healthcare facilities across the six Area Councils.
In a related development, Wike has approved the construction of a new divisional police station at the Wasa Informal Sector. This move aims to strengthen security ahead of the planned relocation of mechanics and artisans from Apo. The approval was given at the 19th FCT Executive Council meeting following a memo seeking the immediate provision of security infrastructure in the area.
The Director of the FCTA Security Services Department, Adamu Gwari, disclosed this information while briefing journalists after the meeting. He stated that the police station was a fresh contract with a six-month delivery timeline. The facility will provide security for the informal sector and surrounding communities.
Under the initiative, the administration plans to construct two divisional police stations in each of the six Area Councils. Construction is at an advanced stage at several locations, while the FCTA Department of Public Building has already taken delivery of two completed and furnished police stations.
Key points
- The Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike, has approved the completion of the Utako General Hospital and renovation of 14 other hospitals in the Federal Capital Territory.
- The planned intervention aims to improve access to healthcare and reduce pressure on tertiary health institutions in the capital.
- Wike has also approved the construction of a new divisional police station at the Wasa Informal Sector to strengthen security in the area.
