We Go To Cameroon for Medical Services – Gembu Stakeholders, Sen. Haruna Manu Pushes for FMC Gembu

Critical stakeholders from Gembu in Taraba State have emphasized the urgent need for a Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in the region, stating that residents are currently forced to travel to Cameroon and distant cities for essential healthcare services.

 

The call was made during a Public Hearing on 50 FMC Bills held at the National Assembly.

The bill, which was sponsored by Senator Haruna Manu, representing Taraba Central Senatorial District, passed its second reading last year. It aims to address the lack of specialized healthcare services in Gembu and its surrounding areas.

Alhaji Abubakar Jarau, who represented stakeholders from Gembu during the presentation of the memorandum, stressed the critical importance of the FMC for the region. "The establishment of an FMC in Gembu will be a historic milestone in Nigeria's quest for universal healthcare coverage, economic development, and national security," Jarau stated.

He further explained that the facility would help save lives, reduce healthcare inequalities, generate employment, and position Gembu as a key healthcare hub for both Nigeria and the West African subregion.

"We urge the National Assembly to pass this amendment with the necessary legislative backing to ensure its immediate and sustainable implementation," he continued. "We call on all stakeholders, policymakers, and development partners to support this initiative so that the people of Gembu and surrounding communities receive the healthcare services they deserve."

He said the Mambilla Plateau, where Gembu is located, is geographically isolated from the nearest tertiary healthcare facilities in Taraba State. Travel to other FMCs involves long, challenging journeys through difficult terrain. The high-altitude climate and unique environmental factors of the region worsen health challenges, making the establishment of a dedicated medical centre essential for specialized treatments and quick emergency responses.

He noted residents of Gembu and surrounding areas are often forced to travel as far as Jalingo, Yola, Gombe, or even Cameroon to access advanced medical services. "This not only imposes significant financial burdens on families but also contributes to high mortality rates due to delays in treatment. The establishment of FMC Gembu would significantly reduce these inequalities, ensuring that quality healthcare is accessible to all, regardless of location.

The Gembu area is prone to seasonal outbreaks of diseases such as respiratory infections, waterborne diseases, and zoonotic illnesses due to its distinct topography and climate. A well-equipped FMC in Gembu would bolster disease surveillance, containment, and response capabilities, contributing to the nation's overall health emergency preparedness in line with national strategies.

The establishment of FMC Gembu will create numerous job opportunities for medical professionals, administrative staff, and other ancillary workers. Furthermore, the facility will stimulate the local economy, attracting healthcare investments, medical tourism, and private-sector partnerships that will benefit the region's economic development.

Beyond its healthcare services, the FMC will serve as a training center for medical students, resident doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals. It will foster collaborative research, particularly in areas such as tropical medicine, high-altitude health conditions, and public health interventions, in partnership with universities, medical institutions, and international health organizations.

The stakeholders believe the establishment of the FMC in Gembu is seen as a crucial step in addressing the healthcare needs of the Mambilla Plateau and surrounding areas. It is not only about providing access to medical services but also about fostering long-term economic and educational growth, improving emergency preparedness, and ensuring that no citizen is left behind in receiving quality healthcare.