In accordance with a presidential commitment made by President Buhari in May of this year, the Federal Government officially assumed ownership of King David University of Medical Sciences, Uburu, Ebonyi state, on Tuesday.
A memorandum of understanding (MOU) to that effect was signed at a ceremony held in the conference room of the Federal Ministry of Health, Abuja, according to a statement signed by Chooks Oko, the spokesperson for the Ebonyi government.
Speaking during the event, the governor of Ebonyi State stated the university's concept was inspired by a desire to improve the lives of the populace, save their lives, and prevent medical tourism.
“Apart from the huge revenue we would save from our people traveling abroad, we would be bringing world class medical services home. That way, we are saving the lives of our people and earning foreign exchange from the foreigners coming for treatment” he said.
The president, who commissioned the stunning university environment in May, was persuaded to declare the federal government's takeover when Governor Umahi further explained that it was beyond what a state could manage.
The federal government had to take over the university because of its strategic relevance to the federal government's overall healthcare goals, according to Osagie Ehanire, Minister of Health, confirming the governor's claims.
“The institution is very ready and well equipped with state of the art facilities. We have confirmed the standards and we are very excited to be taking it over. I will soon be there to physically take it over,” Minister Ehanire said.
The permanent secretary of the ministry, various directors, and the minister of state for health, Barr. Joe Ekumankama, all attended the occasion.
Some commissioners and senior state officials were on the side of Ebonyi state.