The newly established Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Kafanchan, situated in Kaduna State, is set to commence full operations by September 2025.
The Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate announced this timeline following his inspection of the Sir Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa Memorial Hospital, which is being prepared for its transition to federal management.
The development follows President Bola Tinubu’s directive to convert the Sir Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa Memorial Hospital into a Federal Medical Centre, in line with the Kaduna State Government’s decision to place the facility under federal oversight.
During the visit, the focus was on evaluating the hospital’s infrastructure, assessing its personnel, and identifying necessary upgrades to ensure it meets Federal Medical Centre standards. Professor Pate expressed satisfaction with the hospital’s condition and highlighted the ample land available for future expansion.
Pate confirmed that current hospital personnel will have the opportunity to retain their positions through a first-refusal option for transitioning into federal employment, ensuring stability for those dedicated to serving the community.
The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Health Care Services, Dr. Amos Gwamna Magaji, who is a strong advocate for the FMC Kafanchan initiative, expressed deep gratitude to the President for his unwavering support in making this vision a reality. He also commended Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani and other key leaders from Southern Kaduna for their significant roles in establishing the centre.
Magaji urged the Federal Ministry of Health to expedite its efforts and reduce the projected six-month timeline for the hospital’s complete operational readiness, emphasising the critical healthcare needs of the region.
Following the inspection, Chairman of the Southern Kaduna Leadership Council, Elder Ishaya Darey Akau underscored the importance of FMC Kafanchan as an essential resource for the community, which has long depended on long journeys to Plateau and Nasarawa States for vital healthcare services.
The new Medical Director, Dr. Baby Shehu Haruna expressed his sincere gratitude to the President for his appointment as the inaugural Chief Medical Director. He is committed to diligently fulfilling his responsibilities for the betterment of the community and called for the collective support and cooperation of the staff to ensure the hospital’s success.
