A Remarkable Achievement in Pediatric Cardiac Care
The Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Keffi, located in Nasarawa State, has made significant strides in the field of pediatric cardiac care. Over the past three years, the hospital has successfully conducted at least 18 open-heart surgeries on children suffering from various heart conditions. This achievement marks a major milestone in the region’s healthcare system.
Dr. Yahaya Baba-Adamu, the Chief Medical Director of FMC Keffi, shared this information during an interview with journalists in Lafia. The remarks were made following the 2025 Annual Lecture and Award Series organized by The Eyewitness Newspapers. During the event, Dr. Baba-Adamu was honored with the Icon of Public Service Award.
He expressed his gratitude to the collaborative efforts of paediatric surgeons, nurses, and other medical specialists, emphasizing that their teamwork was crucial in ensuring the successful treatment and survival of all 18 children. According to him, the children had a range of heart anomalies, from simple to complex conditions.
Upgraded Facilities Enable Advanced Treatments
Dr. Baba-Adamu highlighted the importance of upgraded equipment in enabling the hospital to perform these life-saving surgeries. He stated, “Because we have upgraded our equipment, it was possible for us to perform open-heart surgeries on no fewer than 18 children, and they are all alive.” He also noted that the recognition would not have been possible without the dedication of FMC Keffi staff.
The CMD explained that many cases previously referred to Abuja can now be handled locally, which has significantly improved access to healthcare for patients from Benue and other neighboring states. This development has reduced the burden on patients and their families, who no longer need to travel long distances for critical treatments.
Expanding Services to Meet Community Needs
In addition to cardiac care, the hospital has made notable improvements in kidney care services. Dialysis patients no longer need to travel to Abuja, as FMC Keffi is now equipped to provide adequate treatment. Dr. Baba-Adamu also announced the establishment of a Multi-Specialty Clinic to address a wide range of health issues, including ear, nose, throat, eye, and dental conditions.
Furthermore, he mentioned that accident victims traveling along highways, who used to be sent to Abuja, can now receive timely treatment in Keffi due to the improved services at the hospital.
Recognition and Support from Local Leaders
During the event, Governor Abdullahi Sule praised the media for its role in promoting transparency, accountability, and civic engagement. Represented by the Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Dr. Ibrahim Tanko, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting an enabling environment for journalists to operate freely and responsibly.
He commended The Eyewitness Newspapers for its consistent service to society, noting that the state government has continued to engage the media as a bridge between government and the public to foster open dialogue and factual reporting.
Focus on Education and Youth Development
In his keynote address, the Guest Speaker and former Secretary to the State Government, Timothy Anjide, highlighted the administration’s focus on education reform, youth empowerment, technical skills development, and preparing citizens for the modern economy.
One of the awardees, former Executive Secretary of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. Faisal Shuaib, represented by former Majority Leader of the State Assembly, Abdulhameed Kwara, expressed appreciation to the newspaper for recognizing his humanitarian contributions.
Honoring Contributions and Strengthening Partnerships
Earlier, the publisher of The Eyewitness Newspapers, Donatus Nadi, thanked Governor Sule and other stakeholders for their support of the organization. The event also featured the presentation of awards to representatives of the governor; the Emir of Lafia, Justice Sidi Bage (retd.); former Customs Comptroller, John Attah; Vice Chancellor of Nasarawa State University, Keffi, Prof. Sa’adatu Liman, among others.