…Says No Resident Will Be Left Behind in Access to Emergency Healthcare
Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has officially launched the Kaduna State Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (KADSEMSAS), describing the initiative as a landmark achievement in his administration’s ongoing efforts to improve access to quality healthcare and save lives across the state.
Speaking during the flag-off ceremony held on Thursday at the Ministry of Health headquarters, Governor Sani stated that the initiative represents more than the deployment of ambulances — it is rooted in the principles of equity, rapid response, and inclusivity.
The newly inaugurated emergency medical system comprises a fleet of fully-equipped ambulances, a centralized dispatch centre, and trained medical personnel capable of stabilizing patients en route to healthcare facilities. KADSEMSAS will operate across all 23 Local Government Areas (LGAs), ensuring comprehensive coverage for both urban and rural communities.
Governor Sani identified key emergency areas — such as maternal complications, road traffic accidents, and cardiac arrests — as critical concerns requiring swift intervention. According to him, KADSEMSAS is designed to drastically reduce emergency response times and save lives.
As part of the system, residents will be able to access services by calling a dedicated emergency line, which will ensure immediate deployment of the nearest available ambulance.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to Universal Health Coverage, Governor Sani highlighted ongoing healthcare reforms, including the strengthening of the Kaduna State Contributory Health Management Authority (KADCHMA), revitalization of primary healthcare centres, and improved welfare for healthcare workers.
KADSEMSAS is fully aligned with the National Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (NEMSAS) adopted by the Federal Ministry of Health in 2024, and officials believe it could serve as a model for other Nigerian states.
In his conclusion the Governor described the launch as a bold and progressive step towards healthcare equity, reiterating his government’s resolve to position Kaduna as a leader in emergency medical innovation and a state committed to protecting the lives of its people.
Also speaking at the launch, Kaduna State Commissioner for Health, Hajiya Umma K. Ahmed, described KADSEMSAS as “a giant leap forward” in the state’s healthcare delivery system. She noted that the initiative incorporates the Rural Emergency Medical and Maternal Transport Services (RESMAT) to ensure effective healthcare access in hard-to-reach areas.
The Commissioner also revealed that emergency care under KADSEMSAS will be provided free of charge for the first 48 hours, particularly for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, accident victims, and children.
The flag-off ceremony was attended by members of the State Executive Council, representatives of the Federal and State Ministries of Health, Healthcare workers, agency Directors, Heads of Health Agencies and development partners.
Add Comment