ILORIN, Nigeria — The Kwara State Government has inaugurated two new oxygen plants aimed at improving access to life-saving medical oxygen across the state.
The Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) oxygen plants were commissioned Monday at the General Hospital in Lafiagi and the Thomas Adewumi Teaching Hospital in Omu-Aran.
The facilities, donated by the Global Fund, are expected to serve as regional hubs for the production of medical-grade oxygen, particularly benefiting hospitals in Kwara North and Kwara South senatorial districts.
Commissioner for Health Dr. Amina El-Imam, represented by Assistant Director of Medical Laboratory Services Alhaji Toyin Raji, described the development as a significant milestone in the state’s healthcare journey.
“Medical oxygen remains a critical life-saving resource used daily in neonatal care, surgeries, emergency treatments, and respiratory conditions,” El-Imam said during the unveiling.
She noted that the new plants would ensure a steady and affordable supply of oxygen, improving health outcomes and offering renewed hope to patients and families across the state.
El-Imam expressed appreciation to the Global Fund for its support, calling the initiative a testament to a shared commitment to quality healthcare. She also acknowledged the role of the Federal Ministry of Health, the National Agency for the Control of AIDS, and technical teams in the successful installation and testing of the plants.
Kingsley Onoja, Zonal Coordinator for North Central Oxygen at the Federal Ministry of Health, led the technical inspection and commissioning. He confirmed that all components — including the air compressor, PSA generator, booster compressor, and filling ramp — were tested for efficiency and oxygen purity.
Onoja emphasized the importance of sustainability, urging the state to establish an Oxygen Committee and adopt a framework to ensure the plants’ continued operation beyond their five-year warranty period. He also encouraged the state to explore revenue generation through oxygen sales to support maintenance.
Dr. Saliu Bolakale, Chief Medical Director of Lafiaji General Hospital, praised the state government and the Global Fund for their consistent investment in healthcare. He said the new plants would significantly enhance service delivery and save lives through reliable, locally produced oxygen.
