Ododo Inaugurates Ultra-Modern Diagnostic Hospital in Kogi »

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has inaugurated the South Ward Hospital and Diagnostic Centre in Edumo, Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area, as part of efforts to expand access to quality healthcare services across the state.

The facility, established by Mrs. Bosede Jumoke Omodara, a healthcare entrepreneur and community development advocate, is designed to enhance access to advanced medical and diagnostic services in Kogi West and surrounding areas.

Conceived in 2018, the project aims to bridge longstanding gaps in specialist and diagnostic healthcare delivery, which previously compelled residents to travel long distances for advanced medical care. Despite initial setbacks, the founder sustained the vision, culminating in the completion of a modern facility equipped with state-of-the-art technology to support early disease detection and improved treatment outcomes.

Speaking at the inauguration, Governor Ododo described the hospital as a symbol of hope, progress, and a testament to a shared commitment to improving the well-being of the people. He commended the promoters and management of the facility for their foresight and investment, noting that such initiatives transcend profit motives and contribute significantly to societal development.

The Governor highlighted the hospital’s advanced diagnostic capabilities, including CT scan, MRI, digital X-ray, ultrasound services, and a fully equipped laboratory. He emphasized that early diagnosis remains critical to saving lives, reducing complications, and lowering treatment costs.

According to him, the facility is strategically positioned to serve not only the immediate community but also residents across Kogi State and neighboring states, thereby emerging as a hub for quality healthcare delivery in the region.

Governor Ododo reiterated that healthcare provision is a collective responsibility, stressing that government alone cannot meet the increasing demands of the population. He therefore encouraged greater private sector participation, describing it as an essential complement to public healthcare initiatives.

He further outlined ongoing reforms by his administration, including the upgrade of general hospitals, revitalization of primary healthcare centres, and expansion of health insurance coverage to ensure broader access to affordable and quality healthcare services. He assured the hospital’s management of continued government support through policies that foster a conducive environment for healthcare investments.

The Governor also urged residents to take ownership of the facility and utilize its services effectively, while appreciating citizens for their sustained support, which he said continues to drive developmental progress in the state. He added that rising private sector investments reflect growing confidence in the administration’s leadership.

Governor Ododo also acknowledged the naming of the hospital’s diagnostic centre after Oluremi Tinubu, describing it as a fitting recognition of her contributions to maternal and child healthcare, women’s empowerment, and social inclusion.

In her remarks, the Chief Executive Officer of the hospital, Mrs. Omodara, stated that the facility was established to complement government efforts in delivering quality healthcare services. She noted that although construction began in 2018, sustained commitment ensured its eventual completion.

She explained that the hospital is designed to strengthen early disease detection, improve treatment outcomes, and reduce the need for referrals and outbound medical tourism. According to her, the acquisition of advanced diagnostic equipment, including MRI and CT scan machines, was supported by the Bank of Industry, with funding assistance of approximately ₦800 million.

Mrs. Omodara expressed appreciation to the bank and other financial partners for their support, adding that the facility is well-positioned to serve the host community, the wider Kogi population, and neighboring states with accessible and affordable healthcare services. She also reaffirmed the hospital’s readiness to collaborate with the government, particularly through the Kogi State Health Insurance Scheme.

Also speaking, the State Commissioner for Health, Abdulaziz Adeiza, confirmed that the hospital is fully registered with the State Ministry of Health and complies with all regulatory standards. He noted that, when fully operational, the facility has the capacity to serve the entire Okun region and could evolve into a major referral centre.

The State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara, attributed the successful execution of the project to improved security in the area, assuring residents of the government’s continued commitment to safeguarding lives and property.

In his remarks, the Obaro of Kabba commended the establishment of the hospital, noting that it would significantly reduce fatalities linked to unqualified medical practitioners. He also called on the state government to intensify efforts to curb the activities of fake doctors in order to protect public health.

The inauguration ceremony attracted top government officials, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and key stakeholders in the health sector, all of whom described the project as a significant milestone in Kogi State’s healthcare development.