The Kebbi State Government has announced plans to relocate six medical departments from Sir Yahyah Memorial Hospital, Birnin Kebbi, to Kalgo General Hospital in Kalgo Local Government Area for proper remodelling.
The Chief Medical Director (CMD) of Sir Yahyah Memorial Hospital, Dr Zaki Abubakar-Zaki gave the information while briefing the press in Birnin Kebbi on Tuesday.
“Gov. Nasir Idris has approved the transformation of Sir Yahyah Memorial Hospital into a modern facility to meet the challenges of contemporary medical care.
“The relocation of some departments to Kalgo Medical Centre is necessary to facilitate the reconstruction of affected buildings and the installation of modern equipment.
“This action puts to rest rumours and speculations that Sir Yahyah Hospital is being relocated to Kalgo,” he said.
Abubakar-Zaki explained that Sir Yahyah Memorial Hospital, established in 1952, was originally built when Birnin Kebbi had a smaller population.
“However, the rapid population growth now necessitates modernisation to align the hospital with current needs.
“Gov. Idris sanctioned the hospital’s transformation during his visit, recognising the importance of modern medical care.
“Patients from the affected departments will receive their medical records for transfer to the new location.
“The departments being relocated are Medicine, Surgery, Ophthalmology, Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT), Dental, and Physiotherapy.
“Departments remaining at the hospital until the completion of the remodelling include Accident and Emergency, Maternity Unit, Paediatrics, Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Dialysis, Laboratory, and X-ray.”
Abubakar-Zaki, who is also the hospital’s Permanent Secretary, noted that the hospital was currently unable to train medical interns, except for nurse interns, due to its current state.
He said once modernised, Sir Yahyah Memorial Hospital would be capable of training medical professionals at all levels.
The CMD also clarified that the hospital would continue to serve as a Tertiary Health Institution but stated it would not become a University Teaching Hospital.
NAN
