Stakeholders from Gembu in Taraba State, on Thursday at the National Assembly during a public hearing on the consideration of 50 bills on the establishment of federal medical centres, canvassed why it’s necessary to establish a Federal Medical Centre in Gembu.
The bill seeking the establishment of the federal medical centre in Gembu, which scaled second reading last year, was sponsored by Senator Manu Haruna, representing Taraba Central Senatorial District.
Speaking while presenting the memoranda on the bill, Alhaji Abubakar Jarau, who represented the stakeholders from Taraba’ State, noted the establishment of the Federal Medical Centre, Gembu, will be a historic milestone in Nigeria’s quest for universal healthcare coverage, economic development and national security.
“It will save lives, reduce healthcare inequalities, create jobs, and position Gembu as a strategic healthcare hub for both Nigeria, and the West African sub region.
“We therefore urge the National Assembly to pass this amendment with the necessary legislative backing, for its immediate and sustainable implementation.
“We appeal to all stakeholders, policy makers and development partners to support this amendment to ensure that the people of Gembu, and surrounding communities receive the healthcare services they deserve.
“The Mambilla Plateau is distant from other tertiary healthcare facilities in Taraba State, and the nearest federal medical centres are several hours away over challenging terrain. •
“The high-altitude climate, and unique environmental factors of the area exacerbate health challenges, making a dedicated medical centre essential for specialized treatments and emergency response.
“The people of Gembu and surrounding communities are forced to travel to Jalingo, Yola, Gombe, or even Cameroon for advanced medical services, leading to financial strain, and high mortality rates due to delays,” he said. •
According to him, establishing a federal medical centre in Gembu, will significantly reduce these inequalities, ensuring that no Nigerian is deprived of quality healthcare due to their location. •
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Also, he pointed out that Gembu and its environs are prone to seasonal disease outbreaks, including respiratory infections, water -borne diseases, and zoonotic illnesses due to its unique topography and climate. •
“A well-equipped federal medical centre in Gembu will improve disease surveillance, containment, and response capabilities in line with the national health emergency preparedness strategy.
“The establishment of the Federal Medical Centre, Gembu will create employment opportunities for medical professionals, administrative personnel, and auxiliary workers.
“It will stimulate the local economy by attracting healthcare investments, medical tourism, and private-sector partnerships, while serving as a training center for medical students, resident doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals. •
“It will encourage collaborative research in partnership with universities, medical institutions, and international health organizations, particularly in tropical medicine, high-altitude health conditions, and public health interventions,” Alh. Jarau added.
