Campaign of Calumny Will Not Deter Us from Providing Efficient Services – FMC Bida MD
By Mohammed Baba Busu
Dr. Usman Abubakar, the Medical Director of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Bida, Niger, has stated that no campaign of calumny will deter the hospital from delivering efficient services to the public. This statement comes in response to allegations made against the hospital management by an anonymous group.
The unnamed group submitted a petition regarding the management of the facility, alleging irregularities in its operations.
The documentation related to these claims was shared with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Minna.
Dr. Abubakar acknowledged that he is aware of the anonymous concerns about his performance as Medical Director. “As a public figure, I understand that I am subject to scrutiny and criticism. I take all concerns about our hospital seriously and will address the issues raised in the petition. I would like to clarify that the allegations made are incorrect and stem from a misunderstanding,” he said.
While Dr. Abubakar emphasized that he would not engage in disputes with any individual or group, he is determined to set the record straight. He firmly rejected the claims of a mass exodus of consultant doctors from the hospital, stating that the facility currently employs no fewer than 60 consultants, an increase from 39 when he assumed his position in 2021.
He noted that these consultants are providing services in various specialties and sub-specialties, and he mentioned that there are seven additional applications from prospective consultants awaiting consideration for recruitment in 2025.
The medical director also highlighted a rise in the number of professional staff, including nurses, pharmacists, physiotherapists, and laboratory scientists.
He addressed claims that key medical equipment in the hospital has been neglected, asserting that the hospital has six functional dialysis machines, with one new machine and another pending installation.
Plans are underway to procure a new CT scan machine as part of the 2024 budget, which will include a five-year maintenance contract.
Dr. Abubakar rebutted the allegation regarding non-functional oxygen plants at the hospital, explaining that an oxygen plant was donated by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and was installed on December
9, 2021. Since then, the hospital has not needed to procure oxygen from any vendor.
Furthermore, he stated that the hospital has become the primary supplier of oxygen for the entire state, with a second oxygen plant strategically located in Minna, the state capital. This plant supplies oxygen to IBB Specialist Hospital, Minna, Jummai Babangida Memorial and Neo-Natal Hospital, Minna, as well as other private hospitals in the state.
“There is no evidence to support the allegation of declining service delivery at our hospital,” Dr. Abubakar asserted. “Efficient and affordable services are being offered.
The main challenge we face is inadequate bed space. However, I am always open to constructive dialogue regarding any legitimate concerns or issues. My door is always open to discuss ways to improve our services and better serve our community.”
Dr. Abubakar reiterated his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of medical excellence and leadership. He expressed his appreciation for the support from all hospital staff and the community, looking forward to continuing to provide exceptional care to patients.
