The Niger government has offset medical bills and donated cash to vulnerable patients to mark Governor Mohammed Bago’s 52nd birthday.

The gesture, led by Niger’s health ministry, benefited patients at Minna General Hospital and the Neonatal Wing of Jummai Babangida Hospital, Minna.

The governor’s chief press secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, said in a statement on Sunday that the initiative formed part of activities commemorating the governor’s birthday.

According to Mr Ibrahim, beneficiaries included patients in the paediatric ward, the paediatric surgical ward, the emergency paediatric unit, the C and A wards, and the gynaecology emergency ward.

Health commissioner Murtala Bagana presented the donations alongside senior ministry officials during a hospital visit.

“Offsetting these bills and offering tokens for other needs is our modest way of celebrating the governor’s birthday,” Mr Bagana said.

He added that the gesture reflected the governor’s “compassion, vision and people-centred leadership”, noting that beneficiaries were carefully selected.

Mr Bagana acknowledged prevailing economic hardship, which he said had denied many vulnerable citizens access to lifesaving healthcare. He urged residents to enrol in the state’s Contributory Health Scheme, NiCare, to ease the burden of medical costs.

“With an annual contribution of ₦16,100, residents can access quality healthcare services at designated facilities across the state,” he explained.

The commissioner reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to revitalising the state’s health sector. He also advocated third-party management for cleaning, maintenance and security at the general hospital to improve service delivery.

Mr Bagana presented cash gifts to outstanding medical personnel, urging them to sustain their dedication and inspire greater productivity.

Executive director of the Niger Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Junaidu Inuwa, commended the initiative. He reiterated the government’s resolve to overhaul the health sector for the overall well-being of citizens.

(NAN)