Customs, ASR commissions 60-bed hospital to boost healthcare access in Bauchi
By Ahmed Ahmed
The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adeniyi, has commissioned a modern 60-bed hospital in Bauchi, describing the facility as a milestone in strengthening healthcare delivery for customs personnel and surrounding communities.
The hospital, built and donated by ASR Africa, the philanthropic arm of industrialist Abdul Samad Rabiu, marks a transition from corporate compliance to impactful institutional partnership, Adeniyi said during the commissioning ceremony.
Reflecting on an earlier visit in 2024, the customs chief expressed satisfaction with the project’s completion and praised medical leadership at the facility, particularly the zonal medical team for professionalism and commitment.
He emphasised that the wellbeing of officers operating in demanding environments remains critical to operational readiness and national economic protection.
According to Adeniyi, the project was expanded after a needs assessment from an initial 30-bed design to a fully equipped 60-bed reference hospital with modern infrastructure.
“Ensuring it meets professional healthcare standards while improving access to quality medical services for personnel, families, and host communities.
Representing Gov. Bala Mohammed, the Secretary to the State Government, Aminu Hammayo, said the facility aligns with the state’s health-sector reforms, including sustained budgetary allocation of at least 15 percent to healthcare,
“Recruitment of over 3,000 health workers, recapitalization of drug supply systems, and expansion of insurance coverage for vulnerable residents and civil servants.
Chief Executive Officer of ASR Africa, Ubong Udo, noted that the foundation invests about $100 million annually across health, education, and social development in Africa, with half spent in Nigeria.
He described the Bauchi hospital as evidence of partnership-driven development capable of evolving from a small clinic into a regional healthcare reference centre while supporting both security personnel and civilians.
Community stakeholders welcomed the intervention. Former Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs and ex-senator Adamu Gumba commended the service for prioritizing health, while local representative Tanko Dutshe said the facility would significantly improve access to affordable care for residents.
The commissioning underscores growing collaboration between public institutions and responsible private partners to advance social welfare, institutional strength, and sustainable national development.
