FG Orders Urgent Overhaul Of Federal Medical Centre, Abuja

The Federal Government has ordered immediate reforms at the Emergency Unit of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jabi, Abuja, in response to widespread outrage over reports of delayed treatment for accident victims.

Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, issued the directive during a surprise visit to the hospital on Sunday, emphasizing that “one mistake can erase a million right actions.”

Naija News gathered that the minister’s visit was prompted by a viral video showing road accident victims allegedly left unattended at the FMC emergency unit. The clip stirred public anger and accusations of gross negligence, prompting the federal government to launch a full investigation into the matter.

Dr. Salako revealed he had reviewed the panel’s findings prior to the visit, stressing that decisive actions were necessary to regain public trust.

“You are on the frontline of life-saving efforts. Despite numerous successes, one error can overshadow everything,” he told medical staff during the visit.

Among the urgent reforms announced, the minister ordered an increase in casualty officers per shift—from two to at least four—to improve response times and reduce patient wait periods. He also mandated the immediate integration of newly recruited health assistants into clinical operations.

While inspecting the facility, Salako pointed out critical gaps in infrastructure, describing the current emergency unit as “inadequate for the volume of cases it handles daily.” Though he acknowledged improvements in power and water supply, he urged continued investments focused on patient care and outcomes.

Hospital management informed the minister of increasing security concerns in the emergency unit. They disclosed that the facility currently relies on private security firms and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to maintain order.

However, Salako insisted on the installation of upgraded surveillance systems, noting that CCTV footage had proven essential in past investigations and should be a standard feature in all emergency departments.

In response to the minister’s concerns, Head of the Emergency Unit, Dr. Timothy Sama’ila, admitted the department is facing serious challenges, including limited space, overwhelming patient numbers, and a shortage of staff.

While commending the dedication of his team, Dr. Sama’ila stressed that the increasing demand for emergency care has stretched the unit to its limits.

Dr. Salako further announced that the Federal Government will soon introduce a national emergency care training initiative aimed at standardizing procedures and improving emergency response across public hospitals.

“This isn’t just about FMC Abuja. It’s about building a functional system that delivers life-saving care to Nigerians during their most critical moments,” he stated.

The visit highlighted the government’s renewed commitment to delivering prompt, accessible, and high-quality healthcare—especially during emergencies.