FG, Borno Join Forces to Transform Azare Orthopaedic Hospital into World-Class Medical Hub

By Achimi Muktar

AZARE, BORNO STATE — What began as a bold vision is fast becoming a groundbreaking transformation. The Federal Government and the Borno State Government have signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will see the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Azare taken over and transformed into a world-class healthcare facility — a move poised to redefine trauma and bone care in Nigeria’s Northeast.

Unveiled Thursday via the Ministry of Health’s official X handle, the initiative is part of a sweeping reform under the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSRII) and the 2023 Health Compact, a blueprint for President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda.”

At the MoU signing ceremony, Minister of State for Health, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, praised Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, calling him a “Health-Friendly Governor” and a model of visionary leadership.

“This is not just policy talk; this is action,” Dr. Salako said. “The Federal Government is here to support states that show initiative, and Borno has proven it’s ready for transformation.”

He confirmed that the Azare hospital takeover is one of 12 new Federal Tertiary Health Institutions (FTHIs) established nationwide to close long-standing gaps in quality care.

Zulum’s Healthcare Revolution

Governor Zulum, known for his infrastructural reforms and fierce development drive, didn’t mince words.

“We have put in the political will, and we will keep delivering,” he declared. He further revealed plans to construct a world-class General Hospital in Borno, which he hopes will evolve into a Federal Medical Centre (FMC).

Zulum also hinted at a long-term vision for Azare to become the Northeast’s medical tourism hub, reducing the need for patients to travel to Kano or further for orthopaedic treatment.

“There’s more to come,” he teased. “We’re not just revamping the orthopaedic hospital — we’re expanding it. Azare might just become the new healing hotspot in Nigeria.”

Collaboration is Key

Permanent Secretary of Health, Daju Kachollom S. mni, emphasized the importance of synergy between federal and state actors.

“Healthcare is becoming more localized and community-driven. Borno is showing what’s possible when leadership meets commitment,” she said.

What This Means for the Northeast

The National Orthopaedic Hospital, Azare, located in Hawul Local Government Area, is a newly minted federal facility already earmarked to become a regional hub for trauma care, bone surgery, rehabilitation, and medical training.

Back in November 2024, Governor Zulum approved N465 million and allocated land to kickstart operations.

Modeled after elite centres in Lagos and Kano, the Azare facility is not only set to offer top-tier orthopaedic services but may also play a pivotal role in addressing Nigeria’s chronic shortage of specialized health workers.

In a region long underserved by modern healthcare infrastructure, the Federal Government’s partnership with Borno isn’t just a handshake — it’s a lifeline. And for the people of Azare, it’s the beginning of a new chapter where healing, hope, and high-impact health services are no longer out of reach.