The Kaduna government and UNICEF have inaugurated and handed over the Yusuf Dantsoho Medical Gas Pipeline system to strengthen access to life-saving oxygen services.

Inaugurating the MGP on Monday at the Yusuf Dantsoho Memorial Hospital in Kaduna, health commissioner Umma Ahmed said the event went beyond infrastructure, describing it as a commitment to saving lives and protecting mothers, newborns and vulnerable citizens across Kaduna.

Ms Ahmed said the inaugurated oxygen piping system complements earlier UNICEF investments, including a level two neonatal intensive care unit and a medical oxygen plant at the facility.

She said that the combined interventions provide a comprehensive approach to addressing maternal and neonatal survival through reliable, safe and uninterrupted access to medical oxygen.

According to her, oxygen remains an essential medicine for newborns, mothers with obstetric complications and critically ill patients, often making the difference between life and death.

The commissioner said the pipeline delivers oxygen directly to points of care, improving efficiency, safety and emergency response, particularly within the neonatal unit.

She said the intervention aligned with the vision of Governor Uba Sani’s administration, which had invested strategically in health infrastructure, human resources and partnerships across primary, secondary and tertiary facilities.

Ms Ahmed acknowledged persistent maternal and neonatal challenges in Northern Nigeria, but said deliberate actions such as strengthened referral systems and expanded neonatal care were steadily changing the narrative.

She assured UNICEF and partners of the state’s commitment to sustaining the investment through proper management, maintenance and optimal utilisation of the oxygen system.

The commissioner disclosed that the 2026 budget included provisions for two additional oxygen plants, the procurement of accessories and maintenance, and training for biomedical engineers, clinicians, and nurses.

She commended the management of Yusuf Dantsoho Memorial Hospital for the ongoing reforms, urging frontline health workers to sustain quality, compassionate and patient-centred care.

Ms Ahmed expressed appreciation to Mr Sani for prioritising healthcare and commended UNICEF for its consistent, strategic and impactful support to the state’s health sector.

(NAN)