Kwara Govt, TAU to upgrade Omu-Aran hospital to a teaching hospital

The Kwara State Government on Thursday agreed to upgrade the General Hospital in Omu-Aran into a teaching hospital that will serve medical students from Thomas Adewumi University (TAU), which is situated in Oko, Irepodun Local Government Area of the state.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that TAU will be responsible for training healthcare professionals such as medical doctors and specialists, contributing to the improvement of the country’s medical services.

While delivering a keynote address during the MOU signing ceremony, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Amina Ahmed El-Imam, referred to the event as “another milestone in strengthening the state’s health system.”

She applauded Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, describing him as “a man of action committed to surpassing his own records across various sectors.”

She pointed to the recent hiring of 1,005 healthcare staff members — including doctors, midwives, and nurses — as clear proof of the administration’s accomplishments.

Dr. El-Imam also outlined the governor’s healthcare initiatives, such as introducing the latest CONMESS salary structure, renovating primary and secondary healthcare facilities, and creating a state teaching hospital.

“To the glory of God, I have been privileged to work in America, the United Kingdom, and Nigeria, and nowhere in the world have I seen a sector completely run by the government that succeeded,” she said.

She praised Governor AbdulRazaq as “a forward-thinking, visionary leader who understands the need for collaboration.” She added, “It takes such a personality to recognize the limits of government and seek the support of the private sector. This is exactly what is at play here today.”

Representing the Kwara South Senatorial District, the Olupo of Ajase-Ipo, Oba Ismaila Alebiosu, commended the governor for initiating the project, saying, “We have never had it this good in our region, and I speak for our people.”

He mentioned other recent accomplishments, such as the commissioning of KWASU’s Osi Campus and various road constructions in the area. “This is another major milestone, demonstrating that he is a governor for all of Kwara State. We are grateful to him,” he added.

He further appreciated the Chancellor and founder of TAU, Dr. Thomas Adewumi, calling him “a fantastic problem solver and a source of pride for the region.” He applauded his work at the university and his humanitarian efforts.

“This project we are gathered here for today is one that fills Kwara Southerners with gratitude,” he said.

“It is the first of its kind in our region, and our large turnout today reflects our excitement. We are thrilled to witness this in our lifetime.”

Dr. Adewumi, in his speech, thanked the governor for the changes he has brought and for his equitable approach to leadership.

“The owners of Kwara South are all here today, as seen in the presence of our monarchs,” he said.

“They have all come to celebrate the governor for what he has done for our region. This is a landmark achievement that goes beyond ordinary considerations.”

“Governor AbdulRazaq is a leader who believes in fairness and is making a significant impact on the lives of the people.”

“The positive changes he has brought to Kwara will be felt for decades and generations to come,” he said.

“Since 1967, we have never had it this good. I pray that God grants him long life and continues to use him for greater accomplishments.”

The MOU is another step taken by the state government to build stronger partnerships with private institutions in the delivery of healthcare services.

NAN also reported that the state previously entered into a similar agreement that enabled Al-Hikmah University to use the newly upgraded Sobi Specialist Hospital in Ilorin as a teaching hospital, helping to accredit its medical programs.