The new oxygen generation plants are designed to provide a consistent and adequate supply of oxygen, crucial for patients with respiratory issues, post-surgical patients, those in intensive care, and others needing supplemental oxygen. The initiative aimed at increasing access to essential medical oxygen, crucial for the survival of children and other vulnerable groups.
In a statement, the organisations said, “By producing oxygen on-site, hospitals in these states can reduce dependency on external suppliers, resulting in greater autonomy, cost efficiency and reduced risk of supply chain interruptions, thereby ensuring continuous patient care.”
Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Out, expressed appreciation for the donation and emphasised the importance of the plant in ensuring the “sustainability of medical oxygen across the state.”
UNICEF Representative, Ms Cristian Munduate, highlighted the importance of the project in providing “a continuous and reliable supply of life-saving oxygen, essential for the treatment of our most vulnerable, particularly children.”
High Commissioner of Canada to Nigeria, James Christoff, highlighted Canada’s pride in partnering with UNICEF and IHS on the initiative to strengthen healthcare systems in Nigeria.
The CEO of IHS Nigeria, Mohamad Darwish, said the initiative represents a boost for healthcare delivery in both Cross River and Kaduna states.
“We are proud to support UNICEF and contribute to an initiative which is designed to strengthen healthcare services and help support the Federal Ministry of Health meet demands for effective oxygen therapy in Nigeria. The initiative aims to improve healthcare accessibility and delivery of services and strengthen treatments for illnesses across our host communities,” Darwish stated.
