FG Flags Off Emergency Ambulances in Plateau to Strengthen Rural Healthcare

The Federal Government has commenced the deployment of Advanced Life Support ambulances and tricycle ambulances in Plateau State as part of efforts to strengthen emergency medical response across the country.

The flag-off ceremony, held in Riyom, Plateau State, marks part of a planned nationwide rollout aimed at improving access to timely emergency healthcare, particularly for people living in rural and hard-to-reach communities.

The intervention is expected to facilitate faster transportation of patients, improve referrals and enhance emergency care for critically ill patients and accident victims.

At the event, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare also announced the approval of Riyom General Hospital as an outpost of Jos University Teaching Hospital.

The development is expected to strengthen the capacity of the facility to provide specialised services while improving access to higher-level healthcare for residents of Riyom and surrounding communities.

Plateau State health authorities said the ambulances would be properly deployed and maintained to ensure that they remain available for emergency operations.

Officials also highlighted progress recorded in reducing maternal deaths in parts of the state, attributing the improvement to interventions aimed at strengthening access to maternal and emergency healthcare services.

The Federal Government said the deployment forms part of broader efforts to establish a more responsive emergency medical system nationwide, ensuring that patients can receive timely care and transportation regardless of their location.