Patients receiving treatment at the Abdul Samad Rabiu Nigeria Customs Service Hospital in Bauchi have commended the facility for its warm reception, quality healthcare services, and affordable medical care.
The patients made the remarks during a visit by members of the Journalists for Public Health and Development Initiative (J4PD) to the hospital.
Speaking with journalists, both inpatients and outpatients described the hospital as “a home away from home,” praising the friendliness, professionalism, and compassion of its staff.
They noted that healthcare workers treat patients with dignity and respect, creating a welcoming environment.
The patients also lauded the affordability of services, the availability of modern medical equipment, and the provision of medications at a 50 per cent discount, which they said has significantly improved access to healthcare.
The hospital’s Chief Medical Director (CMD), Deputy Comptroller of Customs Sunusi Rimi Garba, said the facility remains committed to delivering quality and affordable healthcare services to all categories of patients.
According to him, under the directive of the Comptroller-General of Customs, patients pay only ₦500 for registration and ₦500 for consultation, while laboratory investigations, scans, surgeries, and medications are offered at a 50 per cent discount.
Garba explained that since the commissioning of the upgraded hospital on February 17, 2026, patient patronage has continued to rise steadily.
“Although the hospital is barely 16 weeks old in its current form, its impact on healthcare delivery in Bauchi State and neighbouring communities has been significant,” he said.
The CMD explained that the facility, which operated as a healthcare centre since 2007, was transformed into a modern 60-bed hospital through a partnership between the Nigeria Customs Service and ASR Africa.
He added that the hospital now comprises seven departments, three specialised units, two fully functional operating theatres, delivery suites, a modern laboratory, and a dental centre.
“This hospital reflects the commitment of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Dr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and ASR Africa to strengthening healthcare delivery through public-private partnerships,” he said.
Highlighting the hospital’s services, Garba noted that the facility requires additional healthcare personnel, particularly nurses, to meet growing demand.
“We are yet to fully utilise our paediatric ward due to a shortage of nurses, but we are currently seeking volunteers to support operations for the time being,” he said.
The CMD further disclosed that the hospital has conducted nine free medical outreaches in neighbouring communities, funded by the Comptroller-General of Customs, to raise awareness and improve access to healthcare services.
He thanked the Journalists for Public Health and Development Initiative for the visit and expressed optimism that increased media coverage would encourage more people to take advantage of the hospital’s services.
Speaking during the visit, J4PD Executive Director, Elizabeth Kah, said collaboration between the organisation and the Abdul Samad Rabiu Nigeria Customs Service Hospital would contribute significantly to improving public health awareness, promoting healthy lifestyles, and enhancing healthcare outcomes in Bauchi State and beyond.
The hospital’s departments include Pharmaceutical Sciences and Compounding, Medical Laboratory Science, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Surgery, Paediatrics, and other specialised healthcare units.
