Gombe Deputy Governor Advocates for Local Healthcare Investment

Manasseh Daniel Jatau, the Deputy Governor of Gombe, stated that the funds spent on medical tourism could be redirected to build world-class hospitals across Nigeria. Speaking at the commissioning of Alliance Hospital's new pediatric healthcare center in Abuja, he urged the government and private sector stakeholders to collaborate to strengthen Nigeria's healthcare system and reduce maternal and infant mortality rates.

Jatau criticized the significant annual expenditure on medical treatment abroad, advocating for investment in local healthcare facilities to enhance service delivery. He highlighted the need for Nigerian contributions to improve healthcare outcomes and called for stronger partnerships among medical professionals and research institutions to develop indigenous vaccines and medicines.

Christoph Otabor, Chief Medical Director of Alliance Hospital, noted the establishment of the new center aims to address the shortage of specialist healthcare services for newborns and children. He emphasized that the private sector must play a leading role in addressing Nigeria's healthcare challenges.