The Federal Government has ordered urgent reforms at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abuja, following public outrage over a viral video showing accident victims being denied prompt care at the hospital’s emergency unit.
Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Tunji Iziaq Salako, issued the directive during an unscheduled visit on Sunday.
He also announced a forthcoming nationwide emergency care training programme to standardize hospital response protocols.
The viral video, which sparked national criticism, led to a government panel investigation. During his visit, Salako inspected the emergency unit, met staff, and emphasized accountability.
“Even if you’ve done a million things right, one mistake is what the public will remember,” he told staff.
To improve emergency care, Salako ordered the number of casualty officers per shift doubled and directed immediate integration of newly hired health assistants. He also called for urgent infrastructure upgrades and tighter security and surveillance at the hospital.
Dr. Timothy Sama’ila, head of the emergency unit, acknowledged space constraints, staff shortages, and patient overload, welcoming the reforms.
Nationwide, the government is finalizing plans for an emergency care training initiative to boost healthcare workers’ capacity and improve response standards.
“No Nigerian should be denied life-saving care due to preventable failures,” Salako said.
The move marks a renewed federal commitment to strengthening emergency healthcare across Nigeria.
