Senate Committee Chairman on Health (Secondary and Tertiary), Chaired by Her Excellency Senator Dr. Ipalibo Harry Banigo, has emphasized the importance of creating an enabling environment for health workers, equipped with the right tools, infrastructure, and reward systems to ensure they feel fulfilled in their roles.
Senator Banigo made these remarks while addressing journalists on Friday after inspecting the project implementation of the 2023 appropriation at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital, Bauchi, as part of the Committee’s constitutional mandate.
Dr. Banigo underscored that the right to work anywhere is inalienable; it is a fundamental human right. However, she questioned why health workers seek opportunities abroad, often perceived as greener pastures. “The reality is, those greener pastures are not always as green as they seem. So why do they leave?” she asked.
She highlighted that the factors driving health workers to leave the country must be addressed. “As the Senate Committee on Health, we are committed to tackling these issues head-on.”
“We are encouraging all our medical staff that this country needs them and that they will always be more fulfilled serving their people and leaving a legacy behind.”
Senator Banigo commended the Chief Medical Director, Prof. Yusuf B. Jibrin, and his team for making significant upgrades to some of the hospital’s facilities, some of which are over 100 years old. She stated, “We are quite pleased with the implementation of the 2023 appropriation and the funds released to the hospital, which have enabled them to build and complete the ENT Surgery Complex, General Out Patients Clinic, New Surgical Complex, and Infertility Assisted Reproductive Technology Center. Upcoming projects under the 2024 Budget include the renovation of wards and maternity units and the development of a new maternity complex.”
“I was particularly impressed with the ENT Surgery Complex because they will be collaborating with external partners to perform specialized surgeries such as Cochlear Implant Surgery, which is conducted by very few centers nationwide. Moreover, they have been accredited by the National Postgraduate College to train over a hundred residents in ENT, which will benefit not only this hospital but several others across the country. Addressing manpower shortages in the health sector is crucial, and this initiative will help rapidly increase the number of consultants available to provide healthcare services to our people.”
She pointed out that the name of this institution, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital, is very significant. “It symbolizes nationhood, nation-building, and patriotism. We hope this hospital, named after such a renowned person, continues to deliver significant services and remains a beacon in the health sector. This legacy will attract future generations and instill a sense of patriotism and dedication to public service.”
The CMD, Professor Yusuf B. Jibrin, outlined some challenges faced by the hospital, including high electricity bills, inadequate manpower, irregular release of funds, and water supply issues. He expressed gratitude to the committee for their visit.
Earlier, the committee visited the Federal Medical Centre Azare, Bauchi, and the National Obstetric and Fistula Center Bauchi, where they also inspected the project implementation of the 2023 appropriation.
The hospitals highlighted challenges such as inadequate manpower, high electricity bills, and low funding. The committee assured that these concerns would be addressed and considered in future appropriations.
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