Mirian Gom 
JALINGO, Nigeria – The Taraba State Government orders the temporary shutdown of its state-owned specialist hospital, citing safety and environmental risks linked to ongoing renovation works.
In a directive dated 8 January 2026, the Ministry of Health instructed hospital management to halt all medical services to allow contractors to complete construction work without obstruction.
The decision, approved by Governor Agbu Kefas, leaves patients seeking care in other facilities within or outside the state.
The letter, addressed to the hospital’s Chief Medical Director, states that continued operations amid construction pose potential hazards to patients, staff and visitors. “Given the attendant environmental risks associated with the overhaul, the governor directs that activities within the hospital be suspended to enable the contractor to work unhindered and speedily,” the ministry says.
The directive, signed by Commissioner for Health Dr Bordiya Buma, orders full compliance and confirms that the shutdown will remain in effect until renovation work is completed.
Officials do not provide a reopening date but assure residents that services will resume once the facility is deemed safe.
Health advocates warn that the closure could strain neighbouring hospitals, particularly as specialist care options in Taraba remain limited.
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