A state-of-the-art oxygen plant with the capacity to fill 135 cylinders (20-liter bottles) in a 24-hour period was inaugurated Monday, 25th November at the Specialist Hospital in Damaturu, Yobe State.
This life-saving facility that is made possible through a collaboration between Yobe State Government, UNICEF, and IHS Nigeria, part of the IHS Towers group, will provide 720,000 liters of medical oxygen daily, which is enough to support 100 children with severe pneumonia or 50-60 COVID-19 patients with round-the-clock oxygen therapy.
UNICEF in a statement issued yesterday said the facility, which comes with cylinders and related accessories, is designed to serve not only the Specialist Hospital in Damaturu but also other health facilities in the region. Additionally, it includes a back-up manifold system to connect with hospital oxygen pipelines, ensuring uninterrupted supply.
His Excellency, Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State, highlighted the significance of the investment. “This oxygen plant is a milestone in our efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery in Yobe State. With the ability to save hundreds of lives, especially children and vulnerable populations, it demonstrates our commitment to improving health outcomes for our people. We deeply appreciate the partnership with UNICEF and IHS Nigeria in making this possible.”
UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, Cristian Munduate, emphasized the plant’s role in addressing critical health challenges. “Access to medical oxygen can mean the difference between life and death for children suffering from severe pneumonia or other respiratory conditions. This facility is a testament to the power of collaboration in building resilient health systems and safeguarding the lives of children and families. UNICEF remains committed to supporting initiatives that prioritize child health and survival.”
Mohamad Darwish, CEO of IHS Nigeria, underscored the company’s dedication to social impact. “At IHS Nigeria, we are proud to support initiatives that strengthen healthcare infrastructure and contribute to healthier communities. This oxygen plant is a vital resource for Yobe State and will significantly boost the State’s capacity to provide life-saving medical oxygen to hospitals. This initiative which aligns with our commitment to improving the quality of life in the communities we serve also speaks to the importance of working collaboratively to solve healthcare challenges in the country.”
The Yobe State Commissioner of Health, Dr. Mohammed Lawan Gana, who represented the Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni at the handing over said, “This oxygen plant represents a significant milestone in advancing healthcare delivery in Yobe State, particularly in our efforts to reduce mortality among children under the age of five years. It reinforces our commitment to achieving universal health coverage by ensuring life-saving resources are accessible across all healthcare facilities. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to UNICEF for their invaluable support and partnership, which aligns perfectly with our vision of providing accessible and affordable healthcare for all. The Yobe State government is dedicated to maintaining this facility and ensuring its judicious use to effectively reduce morbidity and mortality rates across the state.”
The new oxygen plant is expected to significantly reduce mortality rates among children and other vulnerable groups by providing reliable access to this essential treatment. This milestone aligns with global and national goals to ensure quality healthcare for all, particularly in underserved areas.
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