Jigawa Government Allocates Land to RSFUTH For Expansion

To enhance healthcare services in Jigawa State, Governor Umar Namadi has pledged to allocate additional land to support the expansion and renovation of the Rasheed Shekoni Federal University Teaching Hospital (RSFUTH).

The hospital traces its origins to the administration of Colonel Rasheed Shekoni, who served as Military Administrator of Jigawa State between 1996 and 1998. Although the groundwork for the hospital began during his tenure, major progress was achieved under Governor Sule Lamido’s administration, which completed and inaugurated the facility in 2014. It was named after the late Colonel Shekoni in recognition of his contributions to the state.

Originally established as a state-owned specialist hospital to address pressing healthcare needs, including maternal and rural health challenges, the facility was transferred to the federal government in 2019 under Governor Muhammad Badaru Abubakar’s administration. This transfer upgraded it to a teaching hospital affiliated with the Federal University Dutse to advance medical training and service delivery.

Governor Namadi made the pledge during a courtesy visit by the hospital’s Chief Medical Director, Dr. Salisu Mu’azu, and his management team to the Jigawa State Government House in Dutse.

He commended the hospital’s progress and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure in the state. Namadi also called on the hospital’s management to give employment priority to qualified Jigawa indigenes, noting the abundance of skilled professionals eager to serve.

“Jigawa has many qualified professionals who are ready to contribute to the health sector. Let’s ensure they are given fair opportunities to serve,” the governor stated.

Namadi assured the team of government assistance in renovating old structures and supporting ongoing projects. “We will provide the additional land needed for expansion and help restore the hospital’s facilities to ensure better service delivery,” he added.

In his remarks, Dr. Mu’azu expressed appreciation to the governor for his support and partnership, revealing that 870 staff members are currently on the federal payroll, with more than 250 being Jigawa indigenes. He highlighted the need for continued collaboration to address equipment and infrastructure challenges.

“This cooperation between the state and federal government is essential for improving healthcare outcomes and strengthening the system for Jigawa residents,” Mu’azu said.

Health professionals across the state have welcomed the partnership, describing it as a major step toward decongesting clinics, expanding training opportunities, and improving medical access for communities across Jigawa.