Ondo Government Hands Over UNIMED Teaching Hospital to Federal Government, FUTA Teaching Hospital Unveiled

Ondo State Government has officially handed over the University of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital Complex, Akure, to the Federal Government. Following the handover, the Federal University of Technology, Akure Teaching Hospital (FUTATH) was formally unveiled.

Speaking at the handover ceremony in Akure on Thursday, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa described the transition as a new dawn for healthcare delivery in the state. He expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the establishment of the teaching hospital, describing it as a transformative step for the health sector in Ondo State and the entire Southwest region.

Represented by his deputy, Dr Olayide Adelami, the governor said the decision aligns with the OUR EASE policy of his administration, which prioritises quality healthcare for all residents. He explained that by handing over the hospital to the Federal Government, the state is opening doors to improved funding, better equipment, specialised personnel recruitment, and wider access to research networks that will enhance medical services for the people.

Aiyedatiwa assured hospital staff of a smooth and fair transition, adding that their rights and welfare remain secure. He noted that the state government is simultaneously upgrading secondary healthcare facilities and revitalising Primary Healthcare Centres across all local government areas. He also revealed ongoing recruitment of health workers to strengthen the workforce.

The governor highlighted achievements of the Abiyamo Maternal and Child Health Insurance Scheme under the Ondo State Contributory Health Commission, disclosing that over 59,000 pregnant women and children under five have benefitted so far. He said Ondo currently records one of the lowest under-five mortality rates in the country according to the 2023–2024 National Demographic and Health Survey. He added that new ambulances had been procured to improve emergency services while the state’s Drugs and Health Commodities Management Agency continues to expand access to quality pharmaceuticals.

Aiyedatiwa described the hospital’s transfer as a gift to the state’s future, expressing confidence that it would become a globally recognised centre of excellence under federal management.

In his remarks, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Services, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, commended the Ondo State Government for the successful collaboration and acknowledged the contribution of Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, in making the event possible. Pate reaffirmed President Tinubu’s commitment to reforming the nation’s health sector through decisive and inclusive leadership.

Ondo State Commissioner for Health, Dr Banji Awolowo Ajaka, described the handover as a historic milestone, noting that Governor Aiyedatiwa has consistently demonstrated commitment to healthcare advancement through massive investments in infrastructure and personnel. He disclosed that 105 primary health centres are currently being upgraded with staff quarters, solar power, and essential medical equipment, while ambulances are being procured for all secondary facilities. The Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, also expressed gratitude to the President and the state governor for the achievement, describing it as a landmark improvement in healthcare delivery.

Meanwhile, civil society leaders have raised concerns about early political campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that such activities violate electoral laws. Speaking with Newsmen, the Convener of the Nigerian Civil Society Situation Room criticised politicians for disregarding the rule of law, stressing that the Independent National Electoral Commission has yet to release the official timetable for campaigns. She urged political actors to respect the law and warned against using official time and resources for campaign activities, calling for stronger sanctions and civic education to ensure accountability.

The National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Yunusa Tanko, also accused the ruling party of breaking campaign regulations, insisting that INEC must enforce the law. He maintained that his movement remains careful with pre-election activities to avoid violating the Electoral Act.

In a related development, the National Assembly is proposing to move Nigeria’s next general elections to late 2026, six months earlier than the usual February 2027 date. The proposal, contained in the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill 2025, was presented during a joint public hearing of the Senate and House Committees on Electoral Matters in Abuja.

The Senate has also confirmed Joash Amupitan as the new Chairman of INEC, following his nomination by President Tinubu. During his screening, Amupitan pledged to restore public confidence in the electoral system through voter education and transparent administration. He succeeds Professor Mahmood Yakubu, who recently completed his tenure as INEC Chairman.