The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced the acquisition and upgrade of the Epe General Hospital, transitioning it to a Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in a move to enhance healthcare services in Lagos State.
This change, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on Thursday by Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Minister of State for Health Tunji Alausa, marks the establishment of the second FMC in the region.
In a statement made available on the state government’s website, Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasised the importance of this upgrade, calling it a “game changer”for healthcare delivery. “This conversion is a new step in our efforts to expand access to quality healthcare for our residents,” he stated, highlighting the initiative’s potential to improve health outcomes in the Epe division.
The upgraded facility will offer advanced services, including a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), Open Heart Surgery Unit, and specialized obstetric and gynecological care and the MoU encompasses plans for a Federal College of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (FEDCAM) in Ilara Igboye, which will provide training in various medical disciplines.
Minister Alausa noted the socio-economic impact of the project, stating, “The establishment of this FMC will not only improve health outcomes but also create employment opportunities and stimulate local businesses.” With the introduction of a School of Nursing set to begin admissions next year, the initiative aims to cultivate a new generation of healthcare professionals.”
