Kwara oxygen plants launched in Lafiagi and Omu-Aran to ensure steady supply of medical oxygen, improve patient care, and support hospitals across the state.
Kwara oxygen plants commissioned on Monday are set to dramatically improve healthcare delivery in the state, according to Commissioner for Health, Dr Amina El-Imam, who hailed the facilities as a milestone in medical infrastructure.
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The two Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) oxygen plants, located at General Hospital, Lafiagi, and Thomas Adewumi Teaching Hospital, Omu-Aran, were donated by the Global Fund and are designed to serve as regional production hubs for medical-grade oxygen.
Dr El-Imam, represented at the ceremony by Alhaji Toyin Raji, Assistant Director of Medical Laboratory Services, explained that the plants would provide a steady and affordable supply of oxygen — a resource critical for surgeries, neonatal care, emergency cases, and respiratory treatments.
“With these plants, our hospitals will now enjoy a reliable and affordable oxygen supply produced locally,” she said. “That means more hope and better health outcomes for our patients and families.”
She added that this development aligns with Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s vision of making healthcare more accessible, sustainable, and responsive to the needs of all citizens across Kwara’s senatorial districts.
The Federal Ministry of Health’s Zonal Coordinator for North Central Oxygen, Mr Kingsley Onoja, led the technical inspection of the plants. He confirmed the proper functioning of key components such as the Air Compressor, PSA Oxygen Generator, Booster Compressor, and Filling Ramp — with oxygen purity verified to medical standard.
However, Onoja stressed that sustainability would be key to long-term impact. He advised the government to establish an Oxygen Committee and reinvest revenue from oxygen sales into ongoing operations and maintenance beyond the initial five-year warranty.
“The plants should not only produce oxygen but also generate income to ensure their continuous use,” he added.
Dr Saliu Bolakale, Chief Medical Director of Lafiaji General Hospital, said the facility would greatly benefit from the locally produced oxygen.
“This project marks a major advancement in our state’s healthcare infrastructure,” he noted, thanking both the Global Fund and state leadership for consistent investment in the health sector.
El-Imam also commended the Federal Ministry of Health, the National Agency for the Control of AIDS, and technical experts whose contributions ensured successful installation and testing.
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In a state where access to critical medical supplies can often be challenging, the Kwara oxygen plants represent not just a technical upgrade, but a life-saving leap towards a more resilient health system.
