Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, on Friday, inspected the multi-billion naira 400-bed capacity Kashim Ibrahim University as part of his ongoing inspection visit to ambitious projects being executed by his administration.
Zulum on Monday inspected the 4,000-capacity International Conference Center, Post Office flyover, and the 2.5km Tandari-Kasuwan Shani-Neital Shoe and Ternary road.
Addressing journalists shortly after inspecting the facility, the Governor assured that the flagship hospital will be completed and ready for operation within the next 60 days, noting that over 90 percent of the work has already been executed and that all medical equipment and installations required for the hospital have been fully procured and delivered.
“The equipment meant for this hospital has all been purchased, procured, and delivered. You can see the level of development in the hospital, and the consultant has informed us that over 90 percent of the work required has been completed,” Zulum said.
The Governor expressed confidence that the remaining work would be concluded within two months, paving the way for the commencement of services.
“We believe that within the next 60 days, we will round off all the outstanding works, and the hospital will be ready for utilisation. Regarding human resources for health, approval has already been granted, and about 350 staff members have been employed. We are set to go and ensure that this hospital, which has been our dream project, comes to stay,” he added.
Governor Zulum remarked that his administration had invested heavily in healthcare infrastructure across the state and was determined to ensure effective management and maintenance of the new hospital.
According to the Governor, the state government has resolved that the new facility would operate under a carefully structured management model that balances accessibility with sustainability.
“Business as usual will not be feasible. The cardinal objective of any government is to bring succor to the people, particularly the less privileged. However, we must establish certain standards for costing. We cannot charge like a private hospital, but we also cannot make everything completely free. There must be a minimum threshold that will ensure the sustainability of the hospital,” Zulum stated.
The Governor further stressed the need for full automation of the hospital’s operations, particularly its billing and management systems, to guarantee transparency, accountability, and efficiency.
“This hospital has the capacity to provide services not only to our people but also to those from neighboring countries. It will become a referral center for quality healthcare, provided it is managed effectively and sustainably,” the Governor added.
Governor Babagana Umara Zulum also inspected the 300-bed State Othopedic Hospital along Dikwa Road, which is at 85% completion, and directed that it be completed within the next four months.
He also inspected the ongoing construction of the road network at Maiduguri Industrial Hub.
The Governor was accompanied by the Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Bukar Tijani; the Acting Chief of Staff, Dr. Babagana Mustapha Mallumbe; Special Advisers; Permanent Secretaries; and other senior government officials.