By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna
The newly established Federal Medical Centre FMC Kafanchan, situated in Kaduna State, is set to commence full operations by September 2025.
Professor Muhammad Pate, the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, confidently announced this timeline to journalists following his inspection of the Sir Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa Memorial Hospital, which is being prepared for its transition to federal management.
This pivotal development follows President Bola Tinubu’s directive to convert the Sir Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa Memorial Hospital into a Federal Medical Centre, in line with the Kaduna State Government’s decision to place the facility under federal oversight.
During the visit, represented by the Ministry’s Director of Health Services, Dr. Salaudeen, the focus was on evaluating the hospital’s infrastructure, assessing its personnel, and identifying necessary upgrades to ensure it meets Federal Medical Centre standards. Professor Pate expressed satisfaction with the hospital’s condition and highlighted the ample land available for future expansion.
He confirmed that current hospital personnel will have the opportunity to retain their positions through a first-refusal option for transitioning into federal employment, ensuring stability for those dedicated to serving the community.
Dr. Amos Gwamna Magaji, the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Health Care Services and a strong advocate for the FMC Kafanchan initiative, expressed deep gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support in making this vision a reality. He also commended Governor Uba Sani and other key leaders from Southern Kaduna for their significant roles in establishing the centre.
Dr. Magaji firmly urged the Federal Ministry of Health to expedite its efforts and reduce the projected six-month timeline for the hospital’s complete operational readiness, emphasizing the critical healthcare needs of the region.
Following the inspection, Elder Ishaya Darey Akau, Chairman of the Southern Kaduna Leadership Council (SKLC), underscored the importance of FMC Kafanchan as an essential resource for the community, which has long depended on long journeys to Plateau and Nasarawa States for vital healthcare services.
In his speech Dr. Baby Shehu Haruna, the newly appointed Medical Director, expressed his sincere gratitude to the President for his appointment as the inaugural Chief Medical Director. He is committed to diligently fulfilling his responsibilities for the betterment of the community and called for the collective support and cooperation of the staff to ensure the hospital’s success.
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