ABUTH Records Major Hospital Upgrades as CMD Appeals for Increased Federal, Stakeholder Support

By Hassan Ibrahim 

The Chief Medical Director of the Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH), Zaria, Professor Hamidu Ahmed Umdagas, has highlighted significant improvements in the hospital's infrastructure and medical services while appealing to the Federal Government and other stakeholders for increased support to sustain ongoing development.

Speaking during a press briefing in Zaria, Professor Umdagas said the hospital has made remarkable progress in recent years through the renovation of key facilities, acquisition of modern medical equipment, and expansion of specialized healthcare services despite financial constraints.

He disclosed that ABUTH now operates two MRI machines, a 128-slice CT scanner, fluoroscopy equipment, and advanced ultrasound systems, enabling the hospital to provide high-quality diagnostic services at subsidized rates to make healthcare more affordable for patients.

The CMD also noted that the hospital has introduced advanced minimally invasive surgical procedures in its Urology Department, attracting patients from different parts of Nigeria, while ongoing efforts to fully digitize patient records and electronic prescription systems are expected to improve efficiency and service delivery.

Professor Umdagas, however, expressed concern over the rising cost of running the hospital, revealing that ABUTH spends about ₦72 million every month on electricity alone. 

He added that delays in the release of Federal Government capital project funds since 2024 have slowed the execution of critical infrastructure projects.

According to him, ABUTH's location in Zaria, away from major commercial centres such as Abuja and Kano, makes the institution heavily dependent on federal intervention and development funding to sustain its operations.

The CMD further disclosed that he has written to the governors of the North-West states and the North West Development Commission seeking additional support.

Professor Umdagas commended the dedication and resilience of ABUTH staff despite the challenges facing the institution and stressed that continued improvements in healthcare delivery would require stronger collaboration and sustained financial support from government and other stakeholders.