CGC Adeniyi Commissions 60-Bed ASR-Donated Customs Hospital in Bauchi

CGC Adeniyi Commissions 60-Bed ASR-Donated Customs Hospital in Bauchi

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, on Tuesday commissioned a 60-bed Abdul Samad Rabiu/Nigeria Customs Service Hospital in Bauchi, assuring host communities of improved access to quality healthcare.

The modern healthcare facility was constructed and donated by Abdul Samad Rabiu, Chairman of ASR Africa and Founder/Executive Chairman of BUA Group, through the Abdul Samad Rabiu Africa Initiative.

The hospital is expected to serve officers of the Nigeria Customs Service(NCS), their families and host communities across Zone ‘D’ and neighbouring states.

Describing the project as a strategic welfare investment, Adeniyi said the facility underscores the Service’s commitment to strengthening institutional capacity through improved personnel wellbeing.

“This commissioning is a clear statement that the NCS prioritises the health and welfare of its officers,” he said. “A modern Service requires not only technology and operational reforms, but also strong social infrastructure that supports those who serve.”

He noted that access to quality healthcare would boost morale, productivity and overall operational effectiveness within the Service.

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of ASR Africa, Dr. Ubon Udoh, said the intervention reflects the organisation’s focus on sustainable and impact-driven philanthropy.

“ASR Africa is committed to impact-driven philanthropy,” Udoh stated. “Our partnership with the NCS demonstrates what can be achieved when private sector commitment aligns with institutional reform and clear developmental goals.”

Also speaking at the event, the Secretary to the Bauchi State Government, Aminu Hammayo, who represented Governor Bala Mohammed, described the hospital as a significant addition to the state’s healthcare ecosystem.

“This facility will complement existing public health institutions and improve access to specialised services,” he said, adding that it reflects productive collaboration between government and responsible corporate entities.

The commissioning marks the culmination of a phased development that began in 2008 with the establishment of a basic health post at the Zone ‘D’ Headquarters in Bauchi. The facility was later upgraded to a clinic and subsequently to a medical centre.

In 2023, a partnership between the NCS and ASR Africa transformed it into a 30-bed hospital, completed in April 2025. Following a needs assessment, the Comptroller-General approved its remodelling and expansion into a 60-bed secondary healthcare facility with selected tertiary services.

The hospital is now equipped with seven clinical departments, including Nursing Services, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Pediatrics, Surgery, Internal Medicine, Pharmacy and Medical Laboratory. It also has Administrative and Health Information Management units, as well as Dental, Radiology and Nutrition units.

The facility is projected to handle up to 300 patients monthly in its first year of operation. Long-term plans include the installation of advanced diagnostic equipment such as CT scans and MRI machines, alongside specialised surgical services, positioning it as a referral centre for the North-East and parts of North-Central Nigeria.

Earlier in the day, Adeniyi paid a courtesy visit to the Emir of Bauchi, Rilwanu Sulaimanu Adamu, where discussions focused on community partnership and development.

The Emir commended the Customs Service for investing in healthcare infrastructure in the state.

“The expansion of this hospital strengthens both institutional service delivery and community wellbeing. It is an example of responsible leadership,” he said.

Stakeholders at the event expressed optimism that the facility would not only improve healthcare delivery for Customs personnel but also enhance medical access for residents in Bauchi and surrounding communities.