In a bid to enhance healthcare access and improve medical services in Nigeria, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), in collaboration with Afreximbank, is set to complete the African Medical Center of Excellence (AMCE), a state-of-the-art 500-bed hospital in Abuja.
The AMCE will specialize in oncology, hematology, cardiology, and advanced medical training, offering world-class treatment to Nigerians while reducing the need for medical tourism.
Strategic Investment in Healthcare
Speaking at a stakeholders’ engagement with the National Assembly Press Corps in Abuja, NNPCL’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to national development. He emphasized that the hospital, scheduled to commence operations in June 2025, will significantly improve access to specialized healthcare.
“NNPCL is dedicated to improving lives across Nigeria, and this facility will provide cutting-edge medical services to those in need,” Soneye stated.
NNPCL’s Broader Healthcare Initiatives
Beyond the AMCE, Soneye highlighted various healthcare initiatives led by the NNPC Foundation. Notably, the foundation has conducted 1,000 free cataract surgeries in the Southwest, restoring vision for many patients.
“We are set to perform another 1,000 surgeries in the North, as well as an additional 1,000 in the Southeast and South-South before the end of the second quarter of 2025,” he added.
He also provided updates on the NNPCL Medical Hospital in Abuja, which attended to over 122,483 patients in 2024 alone. The hospital plays a crucial role in providing emergency medical care, maternity services, dental and eye treatments, and life-saving surgeries.
The Role of Oil in Economic Growth
Soneye underscored the importance of oil beyond its commercial value, describing it as the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, industrial growth, and social progress. He highlighted that the energy sector remains a major employer, creating opportunities for millions of Nigerians.
“For Nigeria, oil is more than just a resource; it fuels transportation, powers industries, and generates revenue that supports national development,” he stated.
He further noted that oil is essential in daily life, contributing to industries such as plastics, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture.
“Without oil, modern life as we know it would be vastly different,” he added.
Commitment to Sustainability and Energy Efficiency
Soneye reiterated NNPCL’s commitment to ensuring energy accessibility, economic stability, and fostering global partnerships to strengthen the oil industry. He emphasized that the company is focused on harnessing Nigeria’s oil resources efficiently while aligning with global best practices in environmental sustainability.
“At NNPC Ltd., we remain dedicated to energy accessibility and fostering a stable economic environment. Our responsibility is to utilize these vital resources efficiently while prioritizing sustainability and energy efficiency,” he said.
He called for collective efforts in driving policies and innovations that will secure Nigeria’s prosperity, urging all stakeholders to stay committed to national development.
“Together, we must continue to drive policies and innovations that secure the prosperity of our dear country,” he concluded.
