By Muslimat Itopa
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has Inaugurated the South Ward Hospital and Diagnostic Centre in Edumo Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area, as part of efforts to improve access to quality healthcare services across the state.
The South Ward Hospital and Diagnostic Centre in Edumo Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area, was founded by Mrs. Bosede Jumoke Omodara, a healthcare entrepreneur and community development advocate, with the vision of expanding access to quality medical services in Kogi West and beyond.
The project, which began in 2018, was conceived to bridge the gap in diagnostic and specialist healthcare services in the area, where residents often had to travel long distances for advanced medical care. Despite initial delays, the founder remained committed to delivering a facility equipped with modern technology capable of improving early disease detection and treatment outcomes.
Governor Ododo described the facility as a symbol of hope, progress, and a strong commitment to the well-being of the people.
He commended the promoters and management of the hospital for their vision and investment in healthcare infrastructure, noting that such initiatives go beyond business to serve humanity.
The Governor emphasized that the hospital, equipped with modern diagnostic facilities including CT scan, MRI, digital X-ray, ultrasound services, and a well-equipped laboratory, would significantly enhance early detection and treatment of diseases.
According to him, early diagnosis remains critical in saving lives, reducing complications, and lowering the cost of treatment.
He noted that the facility would not only serve the immediate community but also cater to residents of Kabba-Bunu, other parts of Kogi State, and neighboring states, positioning it as a hub for quality healthcare delivery in the region.
Governor Ododo reiterated that healthcare delivery is a shared responsibility, stressing that government alone cannot meet the growing demands of the population.
He therefore welcomed private sector participation in the health sector, describing it as a vital complement to government efforts.
The Governor highlighted ongoing reforms by his administration, including the upgrade of general hospitals, revitalization of primary healthcare centres, and expansion of health insurance coverage to ensure that quality and affordable healthcare becomes accessible to all residents.
He assured the management of the hospital of the state government’s continued support through policies that create a conducive environment for healthcare institutions to thrive.
He also called on residents of the community to take ownership of the facility and make effective use of its services.
Governor Ododo expressed appreciation to the people of the state for their continued support, attributing ongoing development strides to collective efforts between government and citizens.
He added that increasing private investments in the state reflect growing confidence in the administration’s leadership.
The Governor also acknowledged the naming of the hospital’s diagnostic centre after Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, describing it as a fitting recognition of her contributions to maternal and child healthcare, women’s welfare, and social inclusion through her initiatives.
Earlier in her remarks, the Chief Executive Officer of the South Ward Hospital and Diagnostic Centre, Mrs. Bosede Jumoke Omodara, said the facility was established to complement government efforts in delivering quality healthcare services.
She disclosed that although construction of the hospital began in 2018, persistence and commitment ensured its completion.
She added that the hospital is designed to strengthen early disease detection, improve treatment outcomes, and reduce the need for medical referrals and outbound medical tourism.
Mrs. Omodara revealed that the acquisition of advanced diagnostic equipment, including MRI and CT scan machines, is being supported by the Bank of Industry, with funding assistance of about ₦800 million.
She appreciated the bank and other financial partners for their technical and financial support.
According to her, the hospital is strategically positioned to serve the host community, the wider Kogi State population, and neighboring states by providing accessible and affordable healthcare services.
She also expressed readiness to partner with the government through programmes such as the Kogi State Health Insurance Scheme.
In his address, the State Commissioner for Health, Abdulaziz Adeiza, confirmed that the facility is fully registered with the State Ministry of Health and complies with all regulatory standards.
He noted that when fully operational, the hospital has the potential to serve the entire Okun region and beyond, adding that it could evolve into a major referral centre.
Also speaking, the State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara, commended the Governor for improving security in the area, noting that the return of peace has made developmental projects like the hospital possible.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to tackling insecurity and ensuring that communities remain safe.
Speaking on behalf of traditional rulers, the Obaro of Kabba commended the founder for establishing a well-equipped hospital in the area, noting that the facility would go a long way in reducing deaths caused by unqualified medical practitioners.
He also appealed to the Kogi State Government to intensify efforts in curbing the activities of fake doctors, in order to safeguard the health and safety of residents.
The event attracted top government officials, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and stakeholders from the health sector, who lauded the initiative as a major milestone in the state’s healthcare development.
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