By Ikugbadi Oluwasegun
The Federal Government has Inaugurated the MedServe Diagnostic Centre at the University College Hospital, UCH, Ibadan, Oyo State, as part of efforts to expand access to quality diagnostic and cancer care.
Muhammad Ali Pate, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare says the government is accelerating investments in healthcare infrastructure across the country.
Speaking at the Inauguration, Professor Pate said 10 MedServe diagnostic facilities have been completed, while three of the six planned cancer centres have also been completed, with the remaining three under construction.
He said this brings the total number of completed and ongoing projects to 13 out of 16 planned facilities.
The Minister also announced plans for a major upgrade of UCH, one of Nigeria’s oldest and leading teaching hospitals, assuring stakeholders that the government is committed to improving its infrastructure.
In the health workforce, Professor Pate acknowledged challenges including the migration of doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other health professionals.
He further maintained that the federal government is working to improve remuneration and working conditions, while training quotas for medical students, nurses, and pharmacists have been doubled.
Professor Pate said the government’s goal is to strengthen healthcare infrastructure, equip health facilities, and develop a skilled workforce capable of meeting the health needs of Nigerians and positioning Nigeria as a healthcare model in Africa.
