By Ben Adaji, Jalingo
Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has applauded the management of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jalingo, for what he described as “unprecedented infrastructural development and improved service delivery” in recent years.
The governor, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Bar. Timothy Kataps, gave the commendation during a town hall meeting in Jalingo on Thursday. He pledged the state government’s continued support to the centre, noting that FMC Jalingo under its Chief Medical Director (CMD), Dr. Aisha Shehu Adamu, has become “a hospital to reckon with, capable of competing with other FMCs across the country.”
“Dr. Adamu has transformed FMC Jalingo with facilities that have lifted the hospital’s image and strengthened healthcare delivery. We are committed to providing the necessary support to sustain this progress,” Kefas said.
The governor, however, urged the Federal Government to increase funding for FMCs nationwide, stressing that timely release of overheads and capital votes is crucial to effective service delivery.
In her remarks, Dr. Aisha Adamu said the town hall meeting was aimed at strengthening ties with the host community while addressing shared expectations. She listed inadequate funding, delayed budget releases, and rising energy costs as the centre’s biggest challenges.
“Though the challenges are there, they cannot stop us. Instead, they point us to where we need to improve and excel. Our focus is on using technology to improve services, building partnerships, and improving the health indices of our community,” she stated.
Several dignitaries and participants praised Dr. Adamu’s stewardship. The state’s Head of Service, Dr. Ahmed Hamidu Kara, commended her “giant strides,” saying the state government is proud of her leadership.
Veteran journalist Comrade Ben Adaji noted that Dr. Adamu had outperformed her predecessors, urging her to “do even more, as Taraba is your home.”
Other speakers, including National Director of CEMON, Aliyu Kuru, and NBA representative, Barr. Sunday Stephen, advised the hospital to strengthen media engagement and seek corporate social responsibility support from major banks and private sector actors such as the Dangote Group.
The event, held at the Campview Event Centre, drew participants from student unions, women’s organisations, religious groups, NGOs, market associations, and farmers’ groups.