FG launches free emergency medical services at National Orthopaedic Hospital in Kano
The Federal Government has launched a new initiative to provide free emergency medical services to indigent patients in Kano State, starting with the accreditation of National Orthopaedic Hospital Dala, in Kano, under the National Emergency Medical Service and Ambulance System (NEMSAS).
Speaking during the unveiling event held on Friday at the hospital, Chief Medical Director, Dr. Nurudeen Isa, said the initiative marks a major health milestone for the current administration, aimed at offering critical care to the less privileged.
“Today, we invited you to showcase one of the major health highlights of this administration—providing emergency care for all indigent patients brought from any part of this state to this hospital, where they will receive free medical attention for the first 48 hours,” Dr. Isa said.
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He explained that NEMSAS, a creation of the Federal Government funded directly from the Federation Account, is designed to ensure that all Nigerians, especially the vulnerable, have access to life-saving care in emergencies.
SolaceBase reports that the program covers patients suffering from road traffic accidents, obstetric emergencies, snake bites, gunshots, and other critical conditions.
“This is the first facility in Kano State to be accredited under this program. Others, including state government hospitals, will soon be enrolled,” he added, emphasising the program’s potential in saving lives and preventing complications during emergencies.
Also speaking at the event, Dr. Emuren Doubra, Head of Operations of NEMSAS, who represented Dr. Said Ahmed Dumbulwa, Director/National Programme Manager of NEMSAS from the Federal Ministry of Health, reaffirmed the sustainability of the initiative, which is backed by statutory funding from the National Health Act-based Basic Health Care Provision Fund.
“From this fund, 5% is specifically allocated for emergency medical treatment. We are collaborating with both private and public health facilities to ensure that poor and vulnerable Nigerians are not left to bear the financial burden of emergency care,” Dr. Doubra stated.
He added that the program aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda for Health and is part of the broader National Health Sector Renewal and Investment Initiative, spearheaded by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate.
As part of its implementation, the initiative includes a fleet of ambulances equipped with medical equipment and personnel, in collaboration with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), to transport accident victims and other emergency patients from any location within Kano State to the hospital.
“These ambulances are not just for transportation. They offer emergency care right from the scene and alert the hospital in advance so preparations can be made to receive the patient,” Dr. Dumbulwa explained.
A patient who benefited from the program, Aliyu Abdul, shared his testimony during the event.
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He was previously told at hospitals in Enugu and Lagos that his leg would have to be amputated following a ghastly accident.
Aliyu Abdul
“When I had an accident, I was told that my leg would be amputated. But when I came here, I got better treatment.
“I am now recovering—you can see I am standing,” he said, expressing gratitude for the 48 hours of free treatment he received.
The program is expected to expand to more hospitals across Kano State and serve as a model for emergency health care delivery nationwide.
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