UATH: Health Minister Commissions Key Medical Projects

The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Ali Pate, has commissioned ten major health infrastructure projects at the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital (UATH), Gwagwalada.

The projects are part of the Federal Government’s efforts to strengthen tertiary healthcare nationwide.
Speaking on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Prof. Pate described the projects as a milestone in the administration’s broader agenda to deliver quality, accessible, and affordable healthcare to all Nigerians.

“Today, we are commissioning ten significant projects at UATH. Similar developments are ongoing in federal tertiary hospitals across the country,” he said.

The minister highlighted progress made in the last two years under President Tinubu, citing investments in infrastructure, workforce development, and healthcare service delivery. He pointed to the Federal Government’s flagship cancer program, with three of six planned centres completed and the remaining expected by Q3 2025.

Prof. Pate also noted the increased uptake of primary care, with over 37 million visits recorded in Q1 2025 under the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund. He mentioned other impactful interventions, including the reimbursement of over 4,000 cesarean sections via the National Health Insurance Scheme and ongoing dialysis subsidies.

On sustainability, the minister emphasised the government‘s focus on training health professionals across various fields and enforcing quality through the Tertiary Institutions Standards Committee.

“The journey to healthcare transformation is long, but the progress under this administration is evident, and more is on the way,” he assured.

Also speaking, Chief Medical Director of UATH, Dr. Bissallah Ekele, expressed appreciation for the Federal Government’s continued support. He said increased budgetary allocations and prompt releases have resulted in improved facilities and services.

“Our proposals are getting approved, which explains the influx of clinical tools, teaching aids, and staff welfare projects,” Dr. Ekele stated. He added that service delivery has significantly improved without compromising affordability.

“As a public institution, our charges remain far below those in the private sector. We remain committed to accessible, equitable healthcare,” he said.

The commissioned projects include modern equipment, learning aids, and welfare facilities to reinforce UATH’s role as a centre of excellence in healthcare and medical education.

Chairman of the UATH Board, Dr. Ikechukwu Odikpo, praised the hospital’s management and staff for their dedication and professionalism. He highlighted the growing reputation of the institution and the increasing public trust in its services.

“We now have equipment that can compete globally, and our staff are receiving recognition both locally and internationally. This reflects true healthcare governance,” he remarked.

Dr. Odikpo noted a surge in public interest and referrals to the hospital, affirming that UATH is on track to becoming one of Nigeria’s most reputable health institutions.