In a significant move aimed at improving healthcare and education in the State, the Kwara State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Al-Hikmah University for the establishment of Al-Hikmah teaching Hospital at the Sobi Specialist Hospital, Ilorin.

The signing of the MoU which took place today in a ceremony at the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) of the State Ministry of Health, is aimed at fostering public private partnyership to advance health care and tertiary education in the State.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Amina Ahmed El-Imam, described the occasion as a pivotal moment for the State, stating that, “today is an auspicious day for us, a meeting of the town and gown. The State government, under the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, is committed to delivering quality healthcare to the people while also ensuring sustainable, high-quality education. This MoU is a reflection of our dedication to the holistic development of Kwara State.”

Dr. El-Imam highlighted the uniqueness of the partnership, noting that it would bridge the gap between the public and private sectors. "This agreement is a clear indication that the government prioritizes the overall development of the State, ensuring that both healthcare and education systems are strengthened for the benefit of all," she reiterated.

In her remarks, the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Dr. Mary Arinde, emphasized the importance of education in driving technological advancement and skill acquisition. “Education is the foundation of literacy and the key to technological growth. This collaboration is a giant stride towards producing highly skilled doctors and healthcare professionals who will bolster our health system. I am confident that with this partnership, Kwara State will soon have sufficient health personnel to meet the growing demand,” she said.

Also speaking at the event, Dr. Sikirullahi Nurudeen, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Al-Hikmah University, expressed the university's enthusiasm for the collaboration. “We are delighted that the State government has agreed to partner with us. We are fully aware of the remarkable progress the government is making in the health sector, and we believe this MoU will further improve health outcomes across the State as the Al-Hikmah University is committed to delivering on its promises.”

The ceremony was attended by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Alhaja Afusat Adenike Ibrahim, the Executive Secretary, Kwara Hospital Management Board, Dr Malik Abdulraheem, Representative of the office of Head of Service, Ministry of Justice and Members of the Academia from Al-Hikmah University.