By Kingsley Bensons
The Kaduna State Government has transferred Sir Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa Memorial Hospital in Kafanchan to the federal government for upgrade to a Federal Medical Centre (FMC), in a move aimed at expanding access to specialised healthcare in Kaduna South Senatorial District.
Governor Uba Sani, who disclosed this in a statement dated October 15, 2026, said the development addressed a longstanding aspiration for improved access to tertiary medical services and reflected cooperation between the state and federal governments.
He welcomed the commendation by the Minister of State for Health, Dr Iziaq Adekunle Salako, for the state’s prompt approval and facilitation of the transfer. Sani said the recognition of Kaduna as an example of healthcare reform reinforced the state government’s commitment to translating intergovernmental cooperation into tangible improvements in public services.
The governor said the hospital’s transition must be accompanied by sustained investment in infrastructure, modern diagnostic and treatment equipment, and skilled personnel to enable it to meet its expanded responsibilities.
He also highlighted the need to protect the interests of existing hospital workers during the transition, noting that their experience, dedication and institutional knowledge would be critical to maintaining service delivery.
Sani said he was encouraged by Salako’s commitment to addressing the state’s request for the protection and appropriate integration of the hospital’s staff into the federal system.
According to him, safeguarding workers’ welfare must go hand in hand with preserving continuity of care and strengthening the institution.
For residents of Kafanchan and surrounding communities, the proposed upgrade could improve access to specialised services closer to home, potentially reducing the need for patients and their families to travel long distances to obtain treatment.
Sani said the goodwill expressed by community representatives and other participants reflected the importance of the development, as well as the expectations residents had for the hospital’s future.
He expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare for their partnership, adding that the state would continue to support efforts to improve healthcare access and protect human dignity.
The governor said the project also offered an opportunity to honour the legacy of Sir Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa through service to humanity.
He maintained that the hospital’s long-term value would be measured by its ability to save lives, relieve suffering and reduce the financial and logistical burden families face when seeking specialist care.
The success of the transition will ultimately depend on federal investment in facilities, equipment and personnel, alongside effective arrangements for existing staff and uninterrupted patient services. These measures will be central to ensuring that the hospital’s new status translates into better healthcare outcomes for communities across Kaduna State.
