The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Ali Pate, has officially commissioned ten key health infrastructure projects at the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital (UATH), Gwagwalada, marking a significant step in the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to enhance tertiary healthcare services across Nigeria.
Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the event, Prof. Pate described the developments as a major milestone in the administration’s commitment to providing quality, accessible, and affordable healthcare for all Nigerians.
“Today, we are commissioning ten significant projects at UATH. Similar investments are being replicated in federal tertiary hospitals nationwide,” the minister announced.
Highlighting the administration’s progress over the past two years, Pate pointed to substantial improvements in health infrastructure, workforce training, and service delivery. He also referenced the Federal Government’s flagship cancer care initiative, noting that three of six planned specialist centres are complete, with the remaining centres expected to be operational by the third quarter of 2025.
Pate further noted a significant rise in the use of primary healthcare services, with over 37 million patient visits recorded in the first quarter of 2025 through the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund. Additional achievements include the reimbursement of over 4,000 cesarean sections under the National Health Insurance Scheme and ongoing subsidies for dialysis treatment.
On the issue of sustainability, the minister emphasized the government’s strategic focus on human capital development and the enforcement of quality standards through the Tertiary Institutions Standards Committee.
“The journey toward a transformed healthcare system is ongoing, but the progress under this administration is clear and encouraging. More advancements are on the horizon,” he assured.
UATH Chief Medical Director, Dr. Bissallah Ekele, expressed gratitude for the Federal Government’s support, noting that increased budgetary allocations and timely disbursements have led to significant improvements in infrastructure and healthcare delivery at the hospital.
The newly commissioned projects include state-of-the-art medical equipment, enhanced learning facilities, and welfare amenities aimed at strengthening UATH’s position as a leading centre for healthcare and medical education in Nigeria.
Dr. Ikechukwu Odikpo, Chairman of the UATH Board, praised the hospital’s leadership and staff for their dedication and professionalism. He highlighted the growing trust and reputation the institution has earned, both locally and internationally.
“We now possess equipment that meets global standards, and our personnel are gaining recognition at home and abroad. This is a testament to effective healthcare governance,” he said.
Odikpo also reported an increase in public confidence and patient referrals to UATH, stating that the hospital is firmly on course to becoming one of Nigeria’s most respected health institutions.
