Nigeria’s Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako has announced the expansion of emergency medical services across thirty-four states of the federation.
Salako made this known in Abuja where he spoke during the 11th Annual Scientific Conference of the Intensive and Critical Care Society of Nigeria.
According to the minister, the programme started in the Federal Capital Territory as a pilot project, now, it operates in 34 states, with the government also planning to reach all states soon.
The government is also developing a digital emergency dispatch platform, as a result, emergency teams will communicate faster with hospitals and ambulance services.
In addition, the platform will help reduce response time during medical emergencies. Officials believe it will improve patient care and save more lives.
The Federal Government is working with the Nigerian Communications Commission to improve the 112 national emergency number and so far, authorities have established 35 Emergency Communications Centres across the country.
Meanwhile, the government has invested in more emergency equipment. Earlier this year, President Bola Tinubu launched 79 ambulances, 145 tricycle ambulances and six boat ambulances. The vehicles will serve both cities and hard-to-reach communities.
Dr. Salako said better funding remains important for quality emergency care adding that stronger health insurance, improved hospitals and better referral systems will help more Nigerians receive treatment without facing high medical costs.
Overall, the expansion shows the government’s commitment to improving healthcare services. If completed, the nationwide emergency network will help patients receive faster treatment during emergencies. It will also strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system for the future.
