The Canadian Government has invested $23 million in building nine oxygen plants across Nigeria, addressing the gaps exposed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
READ ALSO:Calls to prosecute Canada-based woman over Yoruba, Edo death threats stir controversy
Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. James Christoff, made this announcement on Tuesday, during his visit to the newly commissioned ‘Pressure Swing Adsorption Oxygen Plant’ at the Nchia General Hospital in Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State on Tuesday.
The facility was officially unveiled by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and commissioned by Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara on August 6, 2024.
Christoff, who also serves as Canada’s Permanent Representative to ECOWAS, noted that poverty exacerbated the challenges faced globally during the pandemic, stressing the importance of collaboration among governments, international organizations, and local entities to address such issues effectively.
“This is a tangible example of how partnerships between governments like Canada, UNICEF, WHO, the Rivers State Government, and the healthcare system can bring about meaningful change,” Christoff stated.
“It brings me sincere joy to see how Canadian tax dollars have made a difference here in Nigeria.”
Christoff expressed his gratitude to those involved in facilitating the project, noting that the international community had recognized and addressed the shortage of medical oxygen during the COVID-19 crisis.
READ ALSO:Canada GDP up 2.1% in Q2 – Official data
He said that Canada’s $23 million contribution aimed to address these gaps by supporting the construction of nine oxygen facilities in Nigeria.
In her remarks, State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adaeze Oreh, noted the collaborative effort between the state and international partners. Represented by Dr. Mekeke Igwe, Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Health, Dr. Oreh noted that the facility would significantly enhance medical care in the state.
“This oxygen plant fills about 135 cylinders (20-1 liter bottles) in 24 hours and provides 720,000 liters of medical oxygen within the same time frame,” Dr. Oreh said.
“This capacity ensures that 100 children with severe pneumonia or 50-60 adults battling critical respiratory illnesses can receive round-the-clock oxygen treatment simultaneously.”
READ ALSO:I can’t be deported – Canada-based woman threatening to kill fellow Nigerians
Dr. Oreh praised the Canadian government for its commitment to health innovations and support for strengthening healthcare systems in developing regions. She assured that the state is dedicated to maintaining the plant to the highest standards.
Dr. Anselem Audu, Chief of the Field Office of UNICEF in Port Harcourt, praised the funding provided by the Canadian government and IHS Towers through UNICEF. He recalled the dire need for oxygen during the pandemic and expressed satisfaction that such a critical resource is now readily available.
“This is a dream come true,” Dr. Audu said. “The High Commissioner’s visit symbolizes the strong partnership between the Canadian Government and UNICEF in providing life-saving medical facilities.”
Christoff’s visit underscores Canada’s ongoing commitment to supporting healthcare infrastructure and improving medical access in Nigeria.
