Niger State Government is to support 2,000 students to study medical related courses across health institutions in the Country.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago disclosed this when he received the management team of a private Medical Institution, Mercy Medical University, Iwo, Osun State on a courtesy visit at the Government House Minna.
The Governor said his administration is not relenting in its efforts to improve the health sector in the State, hence, its decision to support medical students to address the challenge of inadequate health personnel, especially at the Primary Health Centres.
He revealed that out of the 2,000 students that would be drafted from all the 25 local government areas of the State, 250 will be sent to Mercy Medical University under a partnership between the State government and the Institution.
The Governor further explained that a Memorandum of Understanding will be signed to that effect and will be gazetted by the State Assembly to ensure continuity beyond the present administration.
He said before now, 1,000 Nigerlites including 100 Fulanis had been screened for similar studies overseas to provide medical services for the people in their localities.
While responding to the issue of naming a newly constructed Senate building of the University after the farmer Governor, he appreciated the Governing Council and the Senate for finding him worthy, describing it as memorable.
The Governor again reiterated the need for investment in agriculture because of its enormous value chain, adding that Niger State remains open for more investments in agriculture.
The acting Vice Chancellor, Mercy Medical University, Iwo, Prof. Muhammad Ibrahim Sule, acknowledged the tireless efforts of the Governor in improving the lives of the citizenry.
He said the Management of the Medical Institution has carried out a survey and rated him as the best performing Governor and have decided to immortalize him by naming the new Senate building of the university after him.
Prof. Sule described the efforts of the farmer Governor in agriculture, health and infrastructural development as remarkable and informed him of the Institution’s readiness to partner with the Niger State Government in terms of health personnel training.
Former Niger State Deputy Governor, Ambassador Ahmed Musa Ibeto, who led the delegation of the institution, extolled the good leadership style of Governor Bago.
He described him as a visionary leader whose developmental strides have placed the State on a global map.
