Governor Zulum Commits N100m, Seeks Deeper Collaboration for Borno's UMTH

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, has pledged an intensified partnership with both the Federal Government and various development agencies to enhance healthcare services across the state. This commitment was made during the 9th Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference of the Association of Radiologists of Nigeria (ARIN) held in Maiduguri on Tuesday. During the event, Governor Zulum also announced a N100 million donation from the state government to support a book documenting the tenure of Professor Ahmed Ahidjo, the Chief Medical Director of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH).

Highlighting his administration's dedication, Governor Zulum additionally inaugurated a new Fertility Care Centre and an En-Suite Maternity Complex. These state-of-the-art facilities were constructed through the intervention of the North East Development Commission (NEDC). The Governor emphasized the critical importance of expanding specialist healthcare infrastructure at UMTH, particularly for a state like Borno, which has faced years of insurgency and, more recently, severe flooding, placing immense strain on public services, including healthcare.

He reassured UMTH and other federal health institutions in Borno of the state government's continuous backing, stressing that achieving lasting improvements in healthcare necessitates stronger cooperation among federal and state authorities, development bodies, and professional organizations. Governor Zulum stated, “As a State Government, we will continue to support the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital and other healthcare institutions within our capacity, while strengthening collaboration with the Federal Government and other partners.”

Governor Zulum described UMTH as an indispensable institution, not only for Borno but for the entire North-East region. He acknowledged its pivotal role in saving lives, educating medical personnel, conducting crucial research, and delivering specialized services to a population that has endured protracted humanitarian and security challenges. He lauded the hospital's management under Professor Ahidjo, noting the substantial progress made in infrastructure, specialized medical services, education, research, and professional growth.

Addressing the leadership of UMTH, Zulum remarked, “You are not only managing a Teaching Hospital; you are building a legacy that will benefit generations to come.” The Governor's support aligns with UMTH's ongoing efforts to broaden its specialized service offerings. The newly commissioned Fertility Care Centre and En-Suite Maternity Complex are anticipated to significantly improve access to reproductive and maternal healthcare for residents of Borno and surrounding states. These NEDC-funded projects represent key initiatives aimed at bolstering vital infrastructure in the North-East, a region where years of conflict have severely impacted public services and healthcare facilities.

Governor Zulum also extended his gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his administration's support in healthcare infrastructure, human capital development, and institutional strengthening within Borno. He further commended the NEDC for its impactful interventions across the entire region. The N100 million donation from the Borno State Government is specifically for the book titled 'Duty and Courage: The Story of Professor Ahmed Ahidjo, 2018–2026', authored by Dr. James Bwala. This publication details Professor Ahidjo's career and achievements as UMTH's Chief Medical Director and was officially launched at the event.

Zulum characterized the occasion as an opportunity to acknowledge institutional leadership and underscore the value of documenting the experiences and accomplishments of professionals who have been instrumental in rebuilding public institutions during challenging times. He noted that the ARIN conference, its scientific sessions, the book presentation, and the project commissioning collectively emphasized the importance of research, knowledge sharing, and continuous professional development in establishing a more robust healthcare system. He concluded by congratulating UMTH's management and staff on their achievements, expressing confidence that the new projects would solidify the hospital's reputation as a center of excellence.

The event was graced by numerous dignitaries, including Borno State Deputy Governor, Umar Usman Kadafur; the Shehu of Borno, Dr. Abubakar Garbai El-Kanemi; Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume representing Borno South; members of both National and Borno State Houses of Assembly; Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha; Minister of State for Regional Development, Uba Maigari Ahmadu; representatives from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare; various commissioners; traditional rulers; and the Managing Director of NEDC.