The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to rebuilding the country’s healthcare sector.
She made this declaration during the 25th-anniversary celebration of the National Hospital Abuja, describing the institution as pivotal to the development of the healthcare system.
“Every Nigerian deserves quality healthcare, regardless of their background or circumstances. The Federal Government, under the able leadership of President Tinubu, GCFR, is committed to rebuilding the healthcare system in Nigeria. Therefore, the National Hospital Abuja plays a vital role in ensuring that all Nigerians have access to quality and affordable healthcare,” she said.
As the hospital looks to the future, the First Lady encouraged its staff and management to remain resilient and strive for excellence in providing qualitative medical care.
“It is important to invest in the health of Nigerians, and I call on stakeholders to reflect and contribute positively to this cause,” she added.
Senator Tinubu paid tribute to former First Lady Hajia Maryam Abacha for her vision in establishing the hospital under the Family Support Programme (FSP). Initially created as a national hospital for women and children, its mandate was expanded in 1999 to serve as an apex referral hospital for all Nigerians and was renamed the National Hospital Abuja.
“In honor of this milestone, the Radiotherapy Centre will be named the Mariam Abacha Radiotherapy Centre,” the First Lady announced.
She also commended the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, and the Chief Medical Director of the National Hospital, Prof. Muhammad Raji, along with the hospital’s staff, for their dedication to improving the health and well-being of Nigerians.
Earlier, Prof. Ali Pate emphasized that the health sector is undergoing significant reforms aimed at strengthening the system and making it more effective in the near future.
The Chief Medical Director highlighted that the hospital is now poised to become a referral hub for the African continent.
During her visit, the First Lady commissioned the radiotherapy center and planted trees to mark the occasion.