By PETER TITLE
THE Federal and Plateau State governments have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to ensure the smooth commencement of services at the Federal Medical Centre, Wase, and the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Jos.
The MoU was signed recently at the Federal Ministry of Health in Abuja with the Minister of State for Health, Dr. Tunji Alausa, representing the Federal Government while Governor Caleb Mutfwang signed for the state.
The minister commended the governor’s dedication to delivering effective and affordable healthcare services to citizens, emphasizing that the MoU signified the beginning of an improved and affordable healthcare delivery in Plateau and neighbouring states.
Alausa noted that the Federal Government was working tirelessly to enhance the health system in the country and to curb the “Japa” syndrome.
He disclosed that there were already partnerships with state governors to train doctors and provide conducive working conditions for doctors.
Governor Mutfwang reiterated that the health care of citizens was a priority for his administration and commended the health minister for his leadership role and commitment to the sector.
He assured that the Federal Medical Centre, Wase, and the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Jos, would be maintained and sustained to ensure quality service delivery.
The governor also stressed the importance of working with National Assembly members to address the needs of Plateau citizens and praised the former Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Idris Ahmed Wase, for sponsoring the bills that led to the establishment of the two health institutions.
He called for intensive training of healthcare practitioners to meet international standards and advocated a reduction in the cost of drugs to make healthcare more affordable for the less privileged.
Idris Wase disclosed that the establishment of the two health institutions would not only improve health care service delivery but create employment opportunities for the youth.
He commended Governor Mutfwang for providing the land and enabling environment for the take-off of the establishments and assured of continuous collaboration between the National Assembly and the state government to provide effective health services to the people.
