A powerful rainstorm early Friday morning wreaked havoc at the Plateau State Specialists Hospital in Jos, leaving doctors and other health officials stranded.
Chief Medical Director of the hospital, Prof. Christopher Yilgwan, confirmed the incident to City Round. He reported that the affected medical personnel had been evacuated to other locations for safety.
“We woke up this morning to find that the entire block where some doctors and house officers reside has been destroyed by a rainstorm,” Prof. Yilgwan said. “As we speak, all of them have been stranded and displaced, and their properties destroyed.”
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Despite the devastation, there was a silver lining. Prof. Yilgwan announced the purchase of 100 beds and 100 mattresses for the hospital. However, he emphasized the immediate need to address the damage caused by the storm.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang has been informed of the situation. “In his usual magnanimity, the governor has provided temporary accommodation for the displaced health officials while we assess the extent of the damage and prepare for renovations,” Prof. Yilgwan added. “All hands are on deck to address this problem swiftly.”
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The CMD described the incident as unfortunate, noting that the hospital serves over 60% of the local population, including those from lower-income backgrounds. He highlighted the urgent need for modern infrastructure and facilities, as many of the existing structures were built several decades ago and are now obsolete.
Prof. Yilgwan assured the public that efforts are underway to restore the hospital’s operations and ensure the safety and well-being of both staff and patients.
