By Abdulkareem Haruna

The management of the Federal Neuro Psychiatric Hospital Maiduguri has on Friday, Nov. 3, paid a courtesy call on the North-East Development Commission (NEDC) Management to express their gratitude and seek further support.

Led by the hospital’s Medical Director, Professor Ibrahim Abdu Wakawa, the team conveyed their appreciation for the assistance received thus far and outlined areas where additional aid is required.

The hospital extended its heartfelt thanks to the NEDC for their previous contribution, which included a substantial 500 KVA generator, an ultrasound scan machine, a well-equipped ambulance, hospital beds, and essential consumables.

The NEDC also provided much-needed personal protective equipment during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. These contributions have significantly bolstered the hospital’s ability to provide quality healthcare services to its patients.

However, despite these commendable contributions, the MD said the Federal Neuro Psychiatric Hospital still faces certain challenges that hinder its sustainability in delivering vital services to patients. Chief among these challenges is the high cost of electricity generation. The hospital’s management has earnestly requested support from the NEDC to explore alternative sources of energy, which would alleviate the financial burden and ensure uninterrupted power supply.

Furthermore, the hospital is grappling with water supply issues. To address this predicament, the management has sought assistance from the NEDC in establishing solar-powered boreholes. Such a solution would ensure a reliable and sustainable water supply, thereby enhancing the overall functioning of the hospital.

In their quest to provide comprehensive and advanced medical services, the Federal Neuro Psychiatric Hospital urgently requires an ultra-modern CT scan machine. This state-of-the-art equipment would greatly enhance the hospital’s diagnostic and intervention capabilities.

Additionally, the hospital has expressed a need for training in modern technology to equip their staff with the necessary skills to operate and maintain the advanced medical equipment effectively.

Furthermore, the hospital has expressed its desire to host a conference of the Association of Psychiatric Hospitals. Such an event would facilitate knowledge sharing, collaboration, and the exchange of best practices among professionals in the field, ultimately benefitting patients across the region.

The hospital’s management has sought the NEDC’s support in organizing and hosting this conference.

Upon hearing the hospital’s appeals, the Managing Director of the NEDC expressed his gratitude for the visit and assured the delegation that their demands would be carefully considered based on the priority areas of need. He emphasized the NEDC’s commitment to supporting healthcare institutions in the region and acknowledged the importance of addressing the challenges faced by the Federal Neuro Psychiatric Hospital.

As the management of the Federal Neuro Psychiatric Hospital Maiduguri strives to enhance its services and provide better care to patients, their engagement with the NEDC highlights the significance of collaborative efforts between government agencies and healthcare institutions. With the support and cooperation of the NEDC, the hospital aims to overcome its challenges and continue serving the community with excellence.