Borno govt donates medical items to UMTH to enhance stroke treatments

…As Zulum targets medical equipment for 20 Borno Hospitals

Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State has reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening ties with the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) to improve healthcare delivery, particularly in resettled communities across the state.

pledged while inspecting drugs, medical equipment, and consumables donated to UMTH in Maiduguri, pledged that the state government would provide the required infrastructure and facilities before the outgoing hospital management completes its tenure, paving the way for the partnership to commence.

The Governor disclosed that discussions are underway with UMTH and development partners to replicate the initiative across 20 general hospitals in the state, including the 10 newly constructed facilities, by attracting more medical equipment and healthcare interventions.

He also welcomed the teaching hospital’s decision to support two comprehensive health centres in Rumirgo and Baga r, respectively.

“Before you leave office, we shall do everything possible to ensure that the required facilities are on the ground so that the partnership will be implemented. I also commend those working with you because, without the support of the staff, such achievements cannot be made,” Zulum said.

He commended Ahmed Ahidjo, the outgoing Chief Medical Director of the hospital, for what he described as remarkable achievements that have transformed the institution despite limited resources.

“We have witnessed phenomenal growth and development in this teaching hospital since you assumed duty. I want to assure you that posterity will judge you positively for all the good works that you have done for us in Borno State and indeed in Nigeria,” he added.

Ahmed Ahidjo, Chief Medical Director of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH), commended Governor Babagana Umara Zulum for the N500 million intervention following the 2024 flood disaster and other invaluable support to the hospital.

He said the N75 million out of the amount was used to ship the donated equipment, which includes state-of-the-art endoscopy and ultrasound machines, ICU beds, theatre beds, incubators, monitors, dental chairs, and other critical medical supplies.

“Part of the N500 million you gave us, precisely N75 million, was used in shipping these donated items from the United States. All these items came at no cost to the hospital apart from the shipping expenses, and today they are worth hundreds of millions of naira,” Ahidjo stated.

“We have over 20 modern ICU beds, advanced diagnostic equipment, and many other medical facilities that will be distributed across our departments. We believe Borno State can also benefit from similar donations through this same partnership,” he added.

According to the CMD, the hospital’s standalone Stroke Centre is the only dedicated stroke facility in the county, noting that the centre currently has nearly 100 patients on admission, most of them receiving specialised stroke treatments, significantly improving healthcare delivery in the region.