Growth of Commercial Sector Infrastructure (VII)
Continued from last Monday
Irrigation
Modern sprinkler systems installed in Shonga Farm
Another important part of water supply is providing irrigation for agriculture. A project to provide the New Nigerian Farmers in Shonga with adequate irrigation is nearing completion. CGC Nigeria limited has been awarded the contract to build a pipeline system stretching from the River Niger to the individual farms. Modern sprinkler systems have already been acquired and will make a significant difference to the crop yields at the Shonga farms. Small-scale irrigation projects have also been established in various local Government Areas to assist small-scale farmers.
Healthcare
Investors in Kwara State will find adequate healthcare services. Being a qualified medical doctor himself, the Kwara State Governor, His Excellency Or Bukola Saraki, is placing a great emphasis on healthcare. Hospitals have been upgraded, drugs have been distributed and modern hospital equipment has been procured.
The state is partnering with Medequip Medical Services to construct one of its flagship healthcare facilities – the Central Diagnostic Centre. The facility will provide sophisticated laboratory investigations, pathology and imaging services such as CAT scan and mammography. The centre will not only serve both public and private hospitals in Kwara State but institutions across the entire country. The revenue potential of this initiative, apart from the health benefits, is indeed enormous.
One of the other steps that has been taken to improve healthcare is the establishment of an oxygen plant at the Sobi Specialist Hospital. The oxygen produced is important for surgical and emergency procedures. Through the Malaria-Free Kwara programme, insecticide-treated nets and free malaria drugs are being distributed.
To be continued
