Kebbi Governor Idris Launches Revitalized Argungu Hospital, Cites Urgent Need for Improved Care

Kebbi Governor Idris Launches Revitalized Argungu Hospital, Cites Urgent Need for Improved Care

Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State has officially opened the newly renovated General Hospital Argungu, a significant step in his administration’s push to overhaul the state’s healthcare system. The ₦973.8 million project is part of a broader initiative to modernize medical facilities across Kebbi.

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During the commissioning ceremony, Governor Idris underscored his commitment to providing quality, accessible, and affordable healthcare. “This revitalization is a direct fulfillment of our campaign promises,” he stated, highlighting the Argungu hospital as one of six key facilities undergoing major upgrades. These projects, which also include Sir Yahaya Memorial Hospital, the State Teaching Hospital in Kalgo, and General Hospitals in Yauri, Zuru, and Koko, focus on equipping hospitals with advanced technology and bolstering human resources.

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The governor detailed the administration’s 18-month investment in healthcare, including the upgrade of the Kebbi Medical Centre Kalgo, a revised salary scale for medical professionals to combat brain drain, the procurement of new ambulances, and the renovation of 13 primary healthcare centers. He also announced the installation of solar power at the State Teaching Hospital to ensure uninterrupted electricity. Furthermore, he reaffirmed Kebbi’s participation in the World Bank’s IMPACT project, aimed at achieving universal health coverage by 2030.

However, the event took a sharp turn when Governor Idris revealed he had personally investigated complaints about the hospital’s service. “I received a text from a patient detailing the poor conditions. I came to the hospital with my driver at night to see for myself,” he explained. Deeply dissatisfied with what he witnessed, he immediately directed the Ministry of Health to terminate the appointment of the Principal Medical Officer (PMO), Dr. Emmanuel Ehiem. “We need a competent leader who can manage this hospital professionally,” he declared, ordering an immediate replacement.

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Governor Idris urged the Ministry of Health and hospital management to ensure the proper maintenance of the new facilities. He also expressed gratitude to the contractors for their timely and quality work and thanked the Argungu community for their support.

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Adding to the day’s events, the Chairman of Argungu Local Government Area, Hon. Sani Aliyu Gulma, donated 15 motorcycles to the local party executive and sewing machines to women in the community.

The commissioning was attended by government officials, traditional leaders, and community members, marking a pivotal moment in Kebbi State’s healthcare development.