Health Minister Makes Surprise Visit To FMC Abuja, Orders Urgent Emergency Care Reforms
In the wake of a viral video that drew nationwide criticism over poor emergency response at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abuja, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Adekunle Salako, has made an unannounced visit to the hospital signalling a firm stance on accountability and swift reform.
The video, which showed an accident victim facing delays and indifference at the emergency unit, sparked public outrage and led to the Minister commissioning an investigative panel.
Following the release of the panel’s findings, Dr Salako arrived unannounced at FMC Abuja to assess the facility’s emergency preparedness firsthand.
Interacting with frontline medical staff and the hospital’s Chief Medical Director, the Minister emphasised the weight of their responsibility.
“You are in the eye of the storm, responsible for saving lives,” he said. “Even if you do a million things right, one wrong action can erase public trust. You must get it right every time.”
Dr Salako demanded a review of staffing capacity, directing the hospital to double the number of casualty officers per shift and to fully integrate newly recruited health assistants into the emergency care team.
While noting improvements in power and water supply, he called for urgent upgrades to certain parts of the emergency wing, improved organisation, and enhanced security measures—including surveillance systems.
The Minister also revealed plans for a nationwide emergency care training programme to unify standards across public health institutions.
His message to FMC Abuja was clear: “Everyone is watching you now—this is your chance to show the public what responsive and compassionate healthcare should look like.”
The surprise visit marks a bold move by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to reassure Nigerians that timely and quality emergency care remains a national priority.
Join savinews Africa WhatsApp forum@https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VawgaEL5vKA9Y5XTFg0n
