PAAU Set to Begin Training Medical Doctors

The Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba, is on the verge of a historic breakthrough as it prepares to begin producing medical doctors, thanks to massive investments by the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo in health and educational infrastructure.

This disclosure was made by the Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. Marietu Tenuche, during the ongoing statewide media tour of government projects across Kogi State.

Prof. Tenuche, while addressing journalists at the university, explained that the foundation for training medical students has been firmly laid with the governor’s support. She highlighted the ongoing construction of a multi-purpose medical students’ teaching laboratory, lecture halls, a library, consultants’ offices, and hostels.

“With the clinical complex already in place and the basic sciences and allied health programs running effectively, coupled with the ongoing infrastructural development, PAAU is now positioned to start producing medical doctors soon,” she stated.

The milestone, she said, will not only elevate the university’s profile but also ease the pressure on Nigeria’s overstretched medical training institutions.

She added that all programs at PAAU have attained full accreditation, positioning the institution as one of the fastest-growing universities in Nigeria.

Earlier, the Chief Medical Director of the PAAU Teaching Hospital, Dr. Nayo Anthony Oladele, commended Governor Ododo for sustaining the policies of his predecessor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, while expanding the institution’s capacity. He revealed that the university’s Nursing and Biomedical Science (NBBS) program, now fully accredited, stands as a testament to the governor’s support, which included the provision of office infrastructure, laboratories, and other essential facilities.

Beyond academics, the university community has also benefited from the construction of a 1.5km access road and the rehabilitation of the school clinic, further enhancing the learning environment for staff and students.

The media team, led by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon. Kingsley Fanwo, alongside the Commissioner for Works, Engr. Muhammed Yusuf, also visited Omala and Ankpa Local Government Areas. Projects inspected included the ongoing 10km Abejukolo township road in Omala, the 20km Olubojo-Ogaji gully erosion control project in Ankpa, and multiple interventions at the College of Education, Ankpa.

During the inspection of ongoing and completed projects in Ankpa, Engr. Yusuf reaffirmed Governor Ododo’s commitment to infrastructural development across the three senatorial districts of the state.

He explained that the erosion control and road construction project handled by ACRESAL will properly channel floodwaters, enhance accessibility, and prevent environmental hazards caused by erosion in Ankpa.

At the College of Education, Provost Dr. Femi Fashagba applauded Governor Ododo for addressing long-standing challenges of water and electricity. He noted that over 50 solar-powered street lights, a new water system, enhanced security gadgets, and motorcycles for campus patrol have been provided. The college also now boasts a skills acquisition centre equipped with 30 manual and 20 electric sewing machines to empower students with vocational skills.

Fanwo, speaking to journalists, said the administration remains committed to repositioning educational and health institutions to meet the needs of the people.

“Governor Ododo is determined to place Kogi State high in the committee of states by investing in institutions that directly impact the lives of our people. What we have seen in PAAU today is proof of that commitment,” Fanwo noted.

Residents who spoke to our correspondent expressed their joy and appreciation to governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, assuring him of their continued support.

The tour continues to other parts of the state.