The United Nations Children’s Fund in partnership with the Kano State Government, Canada, and IHS, on Wednesday inaugurated a solar-powered oxygen plant at Muhammadu Buhari Specialist hospital in Kano.
Speaking at the event, the Vice President IHS Nigeria, Mr. Dapo Otunla, explained that the facility formed part of a nationwide project to strengthen oxygen supply across hospitals.
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He pointed out that the plant, fitted with an advanced pressure swing absorption system, would provide life-saving interventions for newborns and children with respiratory illnesses.
“The programme has enabled the installation of nine oxygen plants across Nigeria, in Rivers, Bauchi, Kaduna, Ebonyi, Cross River, Yobe, and Kano States,”
According to him, the plants became operational in March 2024 and have since produced more than 103,000 litres of medical oxygen, serving an estimated 1,500 to 2,500 patients monthly.
He disclosed that IHS Nigeria had recently refurbished the vandalised Digital Park in Kano, describing the oxygen plant project as another testament to the company’s commitment to improving lives.
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Earlier, UNICEF Country Representative in Nigeria, Mrs Wafaa Sa’eed, commended IHS Nigeria, the Governments of Canada and Norway, and other partners for their support.
She described oxygen as life-saving, adding that the project would greatly benefit children and patients in need of critical care.
“At a time when climate change and high fuel costs are challenges, the solarisation makes it more sustainable,”
The UNICEF official lauded the Kano State Government for its leadership and commitment to health and education, stressing that human capital development remained the foundation of prosperity.
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Earlier, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abubakar Labaran, who was represented by permanent secretary of the ministry, commended UNICEF and other partners for the gesture.
He restated the commitment of the state government to improving healthcare in the state.
