The Southern Kaduna Journalists’ Forum (SKJF) has welcomed the handover of the Sir Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa Memorial Hospital, Kafanchan, by the Kaduna State Government to the Federal Government for the take-off of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Kafanchan.
The forum described the development as a major step towards improving access to affordable and specialised healthcare services in Southern Kaduna and neighbouring communities.
In a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Richard Pius Garba, and Secretary-General, Samaila Idris, SKJF said the establishment of the federal medical centre would help reduce the burden on residents who travel long distances to access advanced medical care.
It added that the facility would also create employment opportunities and strengthen healthcare delivery in the region.
The forum commended Senator Sunday Marshall Katung, representing Kaduna South Senatorial District; Amos Gwamna Magaji, representing Zangon Kataf/Jaba Federal Constituency; Daniel Amos, representing Jema’a/Sanga Federal Constituency; and Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, alongside other stakeholders, for their contributions towards realising the project.
SKJF said the handover reflected sustained advocacy, cooperation across levels of government and the collective commitment of stakeholders to improving healthcare services in Southern Kaduna.
It, however, urged the Federal Government and relevant health authorities to ensure the prompt commencement of operations at the centre, with adequate funding, modern medical equipment and qualified personnel.
The forum also called for a transparent transition process and clear operational plans to ensure the facility delivers quality healthcare services and supports medical training and research.
In a related development, SKJF has commended Senator Katung for sponsoring the bill seeking to establish a Federal University Teaching Hospital for the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, in Manchok, Kaura Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The forum said the bill had passed its third reading in the Senate, describing the development as an important step towards strengthening medical education, research and specialised healthcare delivery in the state.
It noted that the proposed teaching hospital, if established, would complement the Federal Medical Centre in Kafanchan and expand access to specialised medical services while supporting clinical training and the development of healthcare professionals.
SKJF called on the House of Representatives to give the bill the necessary consideration and concurrence to enable it to proceed for presidential assent, subject to the completion of the legislative process.
The forum also acknowledged the contributions of Magaji and Amos, alongside other elected representatives and stakeholders, to development initiatives across Southern Kaduna.
It urged continued cooperation among federal and state governments, legislators, traditional institutions, community leaders and other stakeholders to ensure that the projects translate into tangible benefits for residents.
The statement stressed that the success of the institutions would depend not only on their establishment but also on their ability to provide accessible, affordable and quality services.
It therefore called on residents to protect public infrastructure and hold relevant authorities accountable for the effective management and sustainability of the investments.
SKJF reaffirmed its commitment to responsible journalism and public accountability, saying it would continue to highlight developments that advance the interests of Southern Kaduna.
The forum congratulated residents on the hospital handover and expressed optimism that the proposed teaching hospital in Manchok would also become a reality.
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