The Kogi State Government has pleaded with the private sector to render more assistance in the provision of quality healthcare to the rural populace in the state.
A statement issued in Lokoja quoted the state governor, Capt. Idris Wada, as making the appeal in Egbe, near Lokoja, while inaugurating the newly refurbished ECWA Hospital in the town.
Wada in the statement signed by the Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor, Mr. Mike Abu, stated that provision of quality healthcare to rural dwellers was a priority for the government.
The governor said however, that complementary inputs from non-governmental organisations, missionaries and individuals were required to achieve the desired result.
He commended ECWA for partnering with government over the years in the provision of quality education and healthcare for residents in Egbe community and its environ, urging the church not to relent.
The governor also praised the founder of the hospital, Dr George and Esther Campion, for their sacrifices and vision, saying that their love for the community and its people was unparalleled.
He said that the State Government would keep their vision alive by providing modern equipment for the 56-year-old hospital and also revamp the School of Nursing in the town.
Wada also praised Don and Betsie Campion for toeing the steps of their parents by coming to Nigeria to come and undertake the renovation of the hospital.
In his speech, Mr Don Campion, Leader of the Hospital Revitalisation Project, said that renovation works which started in 2009 was embarked upon so that the hospital could continue to serve the community.
He said that renovation work covered the main hospital complex, the staff quarters and provision of some sophisticated medical equipment.
Campion said that the second phase of the renovation would focus on provision of water, expansion of electricity network and recruitment of qualified personnel.
He thanked the community for their love for the Campion family, promising to keep the relationship in line with his parents’ wish.
The traditional ruler of Egbe, Chief Ayodele Irukere, commended Don and Betsie for keeping the memory of their patents alive by renovating the hospital, described as one of the best in the country.
He said that the hospital would continue to be a source of pride to the community and surrounding villages, noting that the hospital had been providing quality healthcare for his people.
The Chairman of Yagba West Local Government, Mr Edward Makanjuola, commended the State Government for introducing free medical scheme for rural dwellers in the state.
He promised to partner with the Campion family to ensure the success of the ECWA Hospital, thanking the Campion family for their gesture.
