UNICEF Commends First-Ever Oxygen Plant Inaugurated In Bauchi

A new Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) oxygen plant and a Level 2 Newborn Unit were commissioned at the Bauchi State Specialist Hospital.

This marks a major milestone in healthcare delivery for children and vulnerable populations in Bauchi State.

Funded by CANADA and IHS, the PSA oxygen plant has the capacity to produce 135 oxygen cylinders (20-liter bottles) in 24 hours, delivering 720,000 liters of medical oxygen daily.

This capacity can support up to 100 children with severe pneumonia or 50–60 patients requiring round-the-clock oxygen therapy.

The facility, equipped with cylinders, related accessories, and a backup manifold system, will not only serve the General Hospital but also other healthcare facilities across the state.

The newly commissioned Level 2 Newborn Unit is designed to provide advanced neonatal care, ensuring premature and critically ill newborns receive life-saving treatment. This development reflects a strong commitment to reducing neonatal and child mortality in Bauchi State.

His Excellency, Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, emphasized the importance of this initiative.

“This oxygen plant and Level 2 Newborn Unit are transformative investments in our healthcare system, particularly for the survival of our children and vulnerable groups. It demonstrates our unwavering commitment to improving healthcare outcomes. We deeply appreciate the partnership with UNICEF and all stakeholders who made this achievement possible.”

UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, Cristian Munduate, lauded the project’s significance in addressing critical health needs.

“Access to medical oxygen and neonatal care is fundamental to saving lives, particularly for children with severe respiratory illnesses or complications at birth. This facility exemplifies the impact of collaboration in building resilient healthcare systems and safeguarding the lives of children and families in Bauchi State.

“My special appreciation to CANADA and IHS for their continued support in improving the lives of children in Nigeria”.

Mohamad Darwish, CEO of IHS Nigeria, underscored the company’s dedication to social impact.

“At IHS Nigeria, we are proud to support initiatives that strengthen healthcare infrastructure and contribute to healthier communities.

“This oxygen plant is a vital resource for Yobe State and will significantly boost the State’s capacity to provide life-saving medical oxygen to hospitals.

“This initiative which aligns with our commitment to improving the quality of life in the communities we serve also speaks to the importance of working collaboratively to solve healthcare challenges in the country.”

The initiative aligns with global and national goals of achieving universal health coverage and underscores Bauchi State’s determination to strengthen its healthcare infrastructure.

ALSO READ: Top Artists and UNICEF Launch ‘No More Zero Dose’ Song for Immunization Awareness