……………New FMC Kumo: FG, Gombe Government Sign MoU Ahead of Take-Off.
……………as Gombe Deputy Governor Leads FG, State Officials on Facility Inspection.
A team of experts from the Federal Ministry of Health has visited Gombe State to formalise preparations for the official take-off of the newly approved Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Kumo.
As part of the prerequisites for the take-off, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the federal and state governments. Other requirements include the provision of facilities, allocation of land for expansion, an extract from the State Executive Council, and evidence of legislative approval ceding the property to the federal government. The team also inspected existing facilities at the upgraded General Hospital, Kumo.
Speaking during a courtesy call on the Deputy Governor, Dr. Jimoh Salawudeen, who led the delegation from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, said the visit follows the recent directive by the Minister of Health to commence all necessary actions toward the establishment of FMC Kumo, as approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Dr. Salawudeen noted that upon arrival, the team found that Gombe State was almost ready for the transition, with essential preparations already in place. He added that during the current visit, the team would ensure all requirements are fulfilled. A second visit will mark the formal takeover of the facility, including staff documentation and their absorption into the federal civil service.
He also emphasised the importance of the state government securing a large parcel of land to accommodate all departments of the medical centre and provide space for future expansion.
Following the facility inspection, Dr. Salawudeen expressed satisfaction with the progress made, describing the infrastructure as well-ventilated and adequately powered with both national grid and solar backup — suitable for a federal medical centre.
Welcoming the delegation, Deputy Governor Manassah Daniel Jatau,Ph.D., expressed the gratitude of the state government and people of Gombe to President Tinubu for his swift approval. He emphasised that the new FMC would complement existing healthcare facilities in the state and serve not only residents but also travellers and accident victims in transit.
Dr. Jatau relayed the appreciation of Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya and urged the people of Kumo and the state to take ownership of the facility by keeping it clean and safeguarding its assets. He informed the team that already sons and daughters of Gombe State are making several contributions for smooth take off of the medical centre.
The Secretary to the State Government, Professor Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi, and the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Habu Dahiru, led the delegation during the facility tour.
Also speaking, the Emir of Akko, Alh. Umar Mohammed Atiku expressed appreciation to President Tinubu, Governor Yahaya, and all stakeholders who contributed to the hospital’s upgrade. He pledged the full support of his emirate towards the successful take-off of the FMC.
The Deputy Governor’s delegation included the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abubakar Luggerewo, other principal officers of the Assembly, the Head of Civil Service, Alh. Ahmed Kasimu Abdullahi, commissioners, and permanent secretaries, among others.
Signed
Abdul Bello
HOC, FIC Gombe
