After a previous report highlighted the abandonment of a multi-billion naira 250-bed hospital, the state government has now handed over the facility to a South African investor.
The hospital, painted white and equipped with 10 ventilators, was mostly completed at over 80% when the former Governor left office in 2019. The former President also visited the facility during the handover.
The previous administration had invested N5 billion out of the project’s N7 billion cost, providing motivation to the contractors involved.
Governor Dapo Abiodun announced that the hospital, currently 65% complete, will have a partial opening in March 2025 and full operations by June of the same year.
The Governor emphasized that the specialist hospital, now in partnership with Viewpoint Health Management Services Limited and Pan African Capital Holdings, will offer world-class healthcare services upon completion.
The hospital’s contractual agreement involves its management and operation by Viewpoint Health Management Services Limited to ensure it functions in line with global standards.
The facility will be equipped with advanced technology, serving as a referral center for medical research, training, and innovation.
Furthermore, the government aims to reduce medical tourism expenditure by providing top-notch healthcare services locally and is also focused on improving primary healthcare centers across the state.
Both government officials and stakeholders expressed optimism about the timely completion and quality of the hospital, aiming to set a new standard in the nation’s healthcare sector.
Negotiations for the hospital’s takeover began three years ago, and the involved parties are committed to delivering a facility that will discourage medical tourism.
The project signifies a significant step in enhancing healthcare services in the state, with a projected opening date in mid-2025.