The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has moved to tackle any form of respiratory illnesses and infant deaths in Bauchi state, by constructing a new Pressure Swing Absorption (PSA) Oxygen Plant and handed it over to the state government.
Speaking during the handing over of the life saving facility in the General Hospital, Azare, the headquarters of Katagum Local Government on Tuesday, Ms Christian Munduate, UNICEF Country representative in Nigeria, said the plant would significantly reduce neonatal
mortality rates and improve health outcomes for the youngest and most vulnerable population.
She said the gesture became a reality through the commitments and unwavering support of donor partners like the Government of Canada and IHS Nigeria.
According to her, the installation of the medical oxygen plant would ensure that critical life-saving interventions, particularly for newborns and children suffering from pneumonia and other respiratory illnesses could be treated.
The UNICEF boss said “this plant is a beacon of innovation and resilience, promising to save countless lives and provide a model for similar initiatives across the country.
“Additionally, the Level 2 Newborn Unit established here at General Hospital Azare is equipped with state-of-the-art
facilities.
“The significance of these developments cannot be overstated. According to recent data, Nigeria has one of the highest rates of neonatal mortality globally.
“Investments in healthcare infrastructure, like the facilities being commissioned today, are crucial in reversing this trend.
“They demonstrate a firm commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 3, which
aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages”.
She further added that UNICEF remained committed to supporting the state government through continuous capacity building, provision of technical expertise, and monitoring progress.
Receiving the facility, Gov. Bala Mohammed of Bauchi state who was represented by his deputy, Alh Auwal Jatau, expressed gratitude to UNICEF for its unwavering efforts in making the project a reality and its commitment in improving the health and well-being of the people of the state.
He said a partnership of this nature propels sustainable development and enhanced healthcare services.
According to him, Medical oxygen is a vital component in healthcare particularly respiratory tracks and a key in addressing life-threatening maternal and newborn emergencies.
0 Comments