DASH CMD Represents Health Commissioner at National Oxygen Summit in Abuja

Timescope news 

The importance of securing and sustaining Nigeria's medical oxygen infrastructure took center stage in Abuja as the Chief Medical Director of DASH Akwanga, Dr. Esala E. Abene, represented the Nasarawa State Commissioner for Health, Hon. Dr. Gaza D. Gwamna, at the 4th Edition of the National Oxygen Coordination meeting.

The high-level meeting, themed "Beyond Access: Optimization and Sustainability of Medical Oxygen Investments," was organized by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare with support from international partners. It convened health stakeholders to deliberate on the future of oxygen supply in Nigeria's healthcare system.

Dr. Abene's participation underscored Nasarawa State's commitment to the initiative, which has seen significant investment in oxygen production capacity across the nation. With support from international partners, the Federal Government has facilitated the construction of oxygen plants in nearly all senatorial zones to bolster healthcare resilience.

Nasarawa State has directly benefited from this program, now hosting four strategic oxygen plants. These include one plant at the General Hospital in Akwanga (DASH Akwanga), two plants at the Federal University Teaching Hospital (FUTH) in Lafia, and one plant at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Keffi.

The critical role of medical oxygen was thrust into the spotlight during the COVID-19 pandemic, fundamentally shifting its perception from a supplementary gas to a vital, life-saving drug. These newly established plants are poised to supply oxygen directly to their host hospitals and surrounding medical facilities, ensuring a ready supply for emergencies, surgeries, and respiratory care.

A key focus of the Abuja meeting was the long-term viability of these installations. Discussions emphasized that while international partners funded the initial setup, the responsibility for sustainability now lies with state governments

Key recommendations from the summit, as highlighted by Dr. Abene's attendance, stress the need for state governments to fully "own" these projects. This involves strengthening relationships with the private sector, which possesses the technical expertise required for maintenance and operational efficiency, ensuring that these heavy investments continue to save lives for years to come.

The summit was attended by delegates from all states of the federation, including Commissioners of Health, Chief Medical Directors of institutions where oxygen plants are domiciled, Directors of Medical Services from State Ministries of Health, and Oxygen Desk Officers.