An Ilorin-based philanthropist, Sheriff Shagaya, has donated a N250 million state-of-the-art facility to the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH), to improve the healthcare sector, particularly in the management of acute burns.
The Batuli Ajiferuke Shagaya Burn Intensive Care Unit (BAS-BICU) building in UITH, Ilorin, is aimed at limiting the systemic shocks that accompany burn injuries and providing a higher level of specialised care to patients suffering from burns.
It will also play a crucial role in preventing infections related to invasive procedures and improving the overall care and treatment of burn patients.
Speaking at the launching of the Batuli Ajiferuke Shagaya Burn Intensive Care Unit (BAS-BICU) building, the donor regretted that, though, healthcare is a basic human right, it is far from being equally accessible to all.
Consequently, he urged governments to bridge the gap in qualitative health care provisions to the masses and called on the public-spirited Nigerians to also assist in such implementation since governments cannot shoulder the responsibility alone.
“This project is not just a token of our love for philanthropy, but a reflection of our recognition that we all have a part to play in strengthening our society.
Healthcare is a basic human right, yet it is far from being equally accessible to all. The onus is on us, as citizens to bridge this gap and provide quality healthcare to those who need it most. Our government is doing its best; they cannot shoulder this responsibility alone. We must lend a helping hand,” he said.
The donor hinted that he lost his grandmother, Batuli Ajiferuke Shagaya to burns after contracting infections. He added that the death of his paternal grandmother inspired him to spearhead the project.
“It will serve as a beacon of hope for those who have been afflicted with severe burns, offering a higher level of care that will not only improve treatment outcomes but also help prevent devastating infections and improve the overall quality of life for those who require such specialised care,” he said.
Shagaya said the over N250 million Burn Centre would serve the needs of our community, save lives, and promote healing and recovery.
“The equipment you see before you will serve as tools in the hands of skilled professionals, transforming the treatment of burn patients in our country.”
Also speaking, the UITH Chief Medical Director, Prof. Yussuf Dasliva, said the project would ensure the provision of quality health care and attainment of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) to the populace.
The CMD, who solicited more donations to UITH, llorin, adding that such donations would enable the hospital to continually improve and expand its healthcare services; and further reduce the spate of medical tourism.
