Former President Commissions Specialist Hospital, Major Roads, Applauds Rapid Development in Northern Nigeria

Gusau, Nigeria — June 18, 2025: Nigeria’s former President, Olusegun Obasanjo, has lauded Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State for what he described as a remarkable transformation in healthcare and infrastructure under the current administration. Obasanjo made the statement during a special visit to the state capital, Gusau, where he commissioned several landmark projects, including the Ahmad Sani Yariman Bakura Specialist Hospital and major road networks.

The elder statesman, visibly impressed, declared that Zamfara was undergoing a significant evolution under Governor Lawal’s leadership, expressing confidence that the state was on a fast track toward modernization and national prominence.

Unprecedented Health Infrastructure in Zamfara

While unveiling the remodeled Ahmad Sani Yariman Bakura Specialist Hospital, Obasanjo noted the facility’s cutting-edge capabilities, specifically highlighting its access to CT scan and MRI machines—technologies that are often absent or non-functional in several of Nigeria’s teaching hospitals.

“It surprised me to learn that this hospital is not only equipped with a CT scan and MRI but that these machines are fully functional and actively serving the people,” said the former president. “Some teaching hospitals can’t boast of this level of service. What I see here is commitment to real, life-changing development.”

He praised Governor Lawal’s vision for modernizing the healthcare sector and described the specialist hospital as a beacon of hope for Zamfara’s residents and a model for other Nigerian states to emulate.

Governor Lawal’s Speech: A Vision for a Healthier, Modern Zamfara

In his address, Governor Dauda Lawal extended his appreciation to Chief Obasanjo for accepting the invitation to commission key projects. The governor described the visit as a historic moment for Zamfara and thanked the former president for his enduring interest in agriculture and development—a sector central to the state’s economy.

The governor elaborated on the extensive upgrade of the hospital, which he said had been revitalized with new infrastructure and state-of-the-art medical equipment. Several new centers were constructed, including:

• An Obstetrics and Gynecology (O&G) unit
• A modern Radiology Complex
• A fully equipped Laboratory Complex
• A newly created Patient Relaxation Arena

Additionally, 14 core hospital departments have been comprehensively renovated to meet international medical standards. These enhancements include tools for diagnostics, surgery, dialysis, endoscopy, ophthalmology, dentistry, and more.

Medical Staff Welfare and Modern Amenities

The governor noted that new residential quarters for doctors and healthcare workers have been completed, featuring two- and three-bedroom semi-detached units and an executive residence for the Chief Medical Director (CMD). Other upgrades include internal road networks, waste management systems, and redesigned landscapes to ensure environmental safety and aesthetic appeal.

Obasanjo on Infrastructure: “Zamfara Is Becoming a Modern State”

Obasanjo also commissioned major road projects, including the Zannah Road to Abarma Road and the Tsalha Bungudu Road to Kwanar Birnin Ruwa Road, both of which are set to boost intra-state connectivity and trade.

“What I’ve seen here today is not just inspiring—it’s transformative,” Obasanjo said. “Zamfara is taking solid steps toward becoming a truly modern Nigerian state. I commend Governor Lawal’s commitment and urge him to continue on this rescue mission throughout his tenure.”

The former president described himself as a “partner in progress” and pledged support for leaders dedicated to impactful governance.

A Sustainable Vision for the Future

Governor Lawal concluded by stressing the importance of sustainable, people-first governance. He said the new specialist hospital would serve not just as a referral center but also as a training institute for healthcare professionals and a platform for medical research.

“We’re not just building structures; we’re building systems that improve lives, build capacity, and ensure that Zamfara contributes meaningfully to national progress.”

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Conclusion

The commissioning of key infrastructure by former President Obasanjo is a strong endorsement of Governor Lawal’s development drive. With improved healthcare, better roads, and renewed hope for the people, Zamfara State is steadily becoming a beacon of transformation in Northern Nigeria.