By Maryam Zanna Gambo
Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has pledged to deepen collaboration with the Federal Government and development partners to improve healthcare services in the state.
Governor Zulum made the pledge in Maiduguri at the opening of the Association of Radiologists of Nigeria, ARIN, 9th Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference, as well as the launch of a book, inaugural lecture and commissioning of projects at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, UMTH.
Governor Babagana Umara Zulum also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting UMTH within available resources. The Book entitled “Duty and Courage: The Story of Professor Ahmed Ahidjo, 2018–2026,” written by Dr. James Bwala, chronicled the achievements of the hospital’s Chief Medical Director.
He commended the hospital’s Chief Medical Director, Professor Ahmed Ahidjo, for exemplary leadership and significant contributions to the institution’s growth noting that UMTH had remained steadfast in saving lives, training medical professionals and providing essential specialist services throughout the difficult years of insurgency and flooding.
He expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support to the state, particularly in healthcare infrastructure, human capital development and institutional strengthening, as well as commended NEDC for its intervention in the hospital and other development institutions in the region.
Unveiling the book Governor Zulum donated the sum of N100 million for the book on behalf of the people of Borno State while Launching the book his Deputy Umar Usman Kadafur donated 50 million naira personally.
Earlier in their brief remarks Chairman, Book Launch committee Professor Shehu Liberty and Professor Danjuma Gambo said the 479-page book, published in 2026 contains 21 chapters and chronicles the author’s childhood, education, professional development, leadership and contributions to healthcare delivery.
Professor Gambo while reviewing the book described Professor Ahidjo’s story as one of resilience, sacrifice, commitment and public service, the author’s childhood, education, professional development, leadership and contributions to healthcare delivery, as well as reforms undertaken at UMTH, secure funding for various projects beyond the hospital’s normal federal budgetary allocations.
He commended the author for documenting the achievements of the UMTH Chief Medical Director, saying the book provides valuable lessons for present and future leaders on integrity, responsibility, vision and dedication to service.
Earlier in a remark the Chief Medical Director of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, UMTH, Professor Ahmed Ahidjo appealed for additional support to strengthen cancer care services at the hospital, saying patients from across Nigeria and six West African countries depend on the facility for treatment.
The Minister of State for regional Development Uba Sani Maigari said UMTH has remained a major centre for healthcare delivery and training of medical professionals for more than 40 years, He commended the Chief Medical Director of the hospital, Professor Ahidjo, for his efforts in responding to the impact of the 2024 flood and supporting the cancer centre is in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the mandate of the NEDC.
He assured the hospital that the NEDC would not only support its immediate requirements for the cancer centre but would also remain available to respond to further requests for improvement.
High point of the event was the Presentation of Awards by UMTH and ARIN, Matriculation of Medical ICT Student as well as commissioning of the Fertility Care Center and 10 En-Suite Maternity Complex constructed by the North East Development Commission and the public presentation of the Book.
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