Originally conceived as a 30-bed healthcare facility donated by ASR Africa, the hospital was upgraded to a 60-bed reference centre under the foundation’s Security Sector Support Grant (SSSG) Scheme. The upgrade reflects ASR Africa’s broader commitment to strengthening healthcare systems within Nigeria’s security formations while also extending services to surrounding communities.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the Assistant Comptroller General (ACG) in charge of Bauchi Zone ‘D’ Command, ACG CG Ogbonna, described the project as a historic milestone for the Customs Service. He noted that the completion of the hospital underscores the Service’s dedication to the welfare of its officers and the wellbeing of its host community.
Providing details of the facility, the Zonal Medical Director and Deputy Comptroller of Customs, Dr. Rimi Garba, explained that the hospital houses seven clinical departments: obstetrics and gynaecology, paediatrics, surgery, internal medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and medical laboratory services. Each department, he said, is fully equipped to deliver high-quality medical care, positioning the centre as a top-tier reference facility in the zone.
Reaffirming the foundation’s vision, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of ASR Africa, Dr. Ubon Udoh, stressed that the initiative aligns with the organisation’s mission to deliver sustainable, impact-driven interventions across health, education, and social development. He highlighted that the partnership with the Customs Service was inspired by the belief of ASR Africa’s Chairman, Abdul Samad Rabiu, that meaningful development can only thrive in a secure and stable environment.
According to Udoh, the hospital is designed not only to serve Customs personnel but also to benefit the host community and other security agencies operating within the state. He further assured stakeholders that ASR Africa would maintain post-commissioning engagement with the NCS to ensure accountability, proper maintenance, and the long-term sustainability of the project.
The Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir A. Adeniyi, expressed deep appreciation to ASR Africa and its founder for what he described as the largest single donation ever received by the Service from one organisation. He pledged that under his leadership, the NCS would ensure the facility is properly maintained and effectively managed to meet the healthcare needs of its personnel and the wider community.
In his goodwill message, the representative of the host community, Hon. Tanko Dutse, commended the philanthropic gesture, noting that the hospital would significantly improve access to affordable and quality healthcare for residents. He also lauded the Comptroller General for fulfilling commitments that continue to yield tangible benefits for the community.
The commissioning of the 60-bed reference hospital reinforces ASR Africa’s expanding footprint in Nigeria’s healthcare landscape. By collaborating with public institutions such as the Nigeria Customs Service, the foundation is helping to bridge critical service gaps, improve access to essential medical care in Bauchi State, and ease the burden on existing public health facilities across the region.