In a significant move to improve healthcare services, the Jigawa State Government has announced plans to establish five new dialysis centres across the state. This was disclosed by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Muhammed Kainuwa, during the opening of bids for the construction of a diagnostic centre and the completion of two specialist hospitals in Hadejia and Kazaure.
The planned dialysis centres will be strategically located in the headquarters of Dutse, Hadejia, Kazaure, Ringim, and Gumel Emirates. Dr. Kainuwa revealed that the state government has allocated N500 million to fund the establishment of these centres. Remarkably, these centres are expected to offer free dialysis services to patients, a move that is likely to bring significant relief to those suffering from kidney-related illnesses in the state.
In his address, Dr. Kainuwa expressed the government's frustration with the prolonged delays in completing critical healthcare projects. He specifically pointed out the ongoing construction of the Hadejia and Kazaure specialist hospitals, which began six and seven years ago, respectively, but are still unfinished. The commissioner warned that such delays, which have led to a significant increase in project costs—from an initial N1.7 billion to N4 billion—will no longer be tolerated.
"The government will not accept any more delays or substandard work on any contract," Dr. Kainuwa stated. He emphasized that contractors and consultants who fail to meet deadlines or deliver quality work will face severe consequences, including the revocation of contracts and possible prosecution.
Dr. Kainuwa also issued a stern warning to the staff of the Ministry of Health and the Due Process and Monitoring Bureau, stating that the government expects nothing less than high-quality work. He tasked the successful bidders with ensuring that all projects are completed within the stipulated time frame and to the highest standards.
The Director-General of the Jigawa State Due Process and Project Monitoring Bureau, Prof. Kasim Ibrahim, echoed these sentiments. He urged contractors to deliver quality work on time, assuring them of timely payments for work done. Prof. Ibrahim made it clear that delays and poor-quality work would not be tolerated, as they lead to unnecessary cost variations.
The Jigawa State Government’s initiative to establish five dialysis centres across the state marks a significant step forward in improving healthcare services for its citizens. The government’s commitment to ensuring timely and quality completion of healthcare projects is a positive development that promises to enhance the overall well-being of the people of Jigawa. With these measures in place, the state is set to provide better access to essential healthcare services, particularly for those in need of dialysis treatment.