MRI equipment for the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital in Ile-Ife, South West Nigeria, will cost a total of N592,271,792.48. This was decided at a meeting of the Federal Executive Council on Wednesday, which was led by President Muhammadu Buhari.
Ekumankama Joseph, the Minister of State for Health, told State House Correspondents about the approval. He also said that the purchase was needed because patients with conditions that needed a thorough diagnosis were not getting good care.
The acquisition of a single-unit 1.5 MRI machine to replace the outdated 0.2 model that is no longer up to code was graciously allowed by the FEC, the Minister claims.
Joseph is certain that when the equipment is delivered and installed, people who endure difficult trips to receive improved healthcare services will remain in place and use them whenever they want.
His exact remarks were, "The letter that we submitted from the Federal Ministry of Health is for the acquisition of MRI equipment for the Obafemi Awolowo University Hospital. You may not be aware that the university hospital has just one 0.2 Tesla MRI machine, which is no longer up to standard when you compare it to modern technology.
"This has made 1.5 MRI equipment available for diagnostic services in the majority of hospitals, both within and outside the nation."
So, it has been hard to give the best care to people who come to the hospital for diagnosis and treatment.
As a result, the FEC wisely authorized the purchase and supply of a single 1.5 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging equipment as well as other accessories in favor of Messrs. CG Gasta Company Limited for the amount of N592,271,792.48k, inclusive of 7.5% VAT, with a six-month delivery window.
"With the purchase of this equipment, it is firmly believed that the majority of patients who currently travel to Lagos or other nearby areas in search of better medical care will be able to do so in comfort and leisure while still receiving the necessary medical care at the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital."
Therefore, we thank the Council for the opportunity to receive this kind of approval, which will significantly improve the medical services at the University Teaching Hospital.
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