Bauchi’s ₦19bn Hospital Upgrade Is Commendable — But Rural Clinics Must Not Be Forgotten -By Yasir Shehu Adam

When a government makes health a priority, it wins the trust of its people. That is why the recent approval by the Bauchi State Government to spend ₦19 billion on the total rehabilitation and upgrade of the Bauchi State Specialist Hospital deserves both attention and appreciation.

According to reports from The Punch and other local sources, Governor Bala Mohammed has endorsed a comprehensive plan to transform the Specialist Hospital into a modern medical facility that will serve as a referral centre for the entire North-East. The project also includes the construction of more than 130 housing units for doctors, nurses, and other health workers — a long-awaited step that will not only improve service delivery but also help attract and retain skilled personnel.

For years, the Bauchi Specialist Hospital has battled with decaying infrastructure, obsolete equipment, and severe staff shortages. If implemented sincerely and completed on time, this project could mark the beginning of a new era in healthcare delivery in the state.

However, while the government focuses on upgrading the Specialist Hospital, it is equally important not to neglect the Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) that serve the majority of Bauchi’s rural population. Across local government areas — from Misau to Itas, Toro to Kirfi — several PHCs still struggle without essential drugs, trained staff, or reliable electricity. In some communities, expectant mothers walk long distances to access care, only to find empty wards and broken beds.

Healthcare reform must be balanced. While cities benefit from modern hospitals, villages too deserve working clinics. The success of this ₦19 billion project will not be measured only by new buildings or modern machines, but by the quality of care it delivers to ordinary families across Bauchi State.

As a citizen and a young journalist from Bauchi, I sincerely hope this ambitious project will be completed without corruption or delay — and that its impact will reach every community in need. Beyond healthcare, I also wish to see such bold and transformative initiatives extended to the education sector, where our schools and students continue to cry for attention and support.