The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Adewale Adeniyi, on Tuesday commissioned the Abdul Samad Rabiu/Nigeria Customs Service Hospital in Bauchi, a 60-bed healthcare facility donated through the Abdul Samad Rabiu Africa Initiative (ASR Africa).
The hospital, constructed by ASR Africa founded by Abdul Samad Rabiu, Chairman of BUA Group is expected to expand access to quality healthcare for Customs personnel, their families, and host communities across Zone ‘D’ and neighbouring states.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Adeniyi described the project as a strategic welfare investment that underscores the Service’s commitment to strengthening operational capacity through improved personnel wellbeing.
“This commissioning is a clear statement that the NCS prioritises the health and welfare of its officers,” he said. “A modern Service requires not only technology and operational reforms but also strong social infrastructure that supports those who serve.”
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of ASR Africa, Dr. Ubon Udoh, said the intervention reflects the organisation’s commitment to sustainable and impact-driven philanthropy.
“Our partnership with the NCS demonstrates what can be achieved when private sector commitment aligns with institutional reform and clear developmental goals,” he noted.
Delivering a message on behalf of Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, the Secretary to the State Government, Aminu Hammayo, described the project as a major boost to the state’s healthcare system.
“This facility will complement existing public health institutions and improve access to specialised services,” he said, adding that the initiative highlights the importance of collaboration between government institutions and responsible corporate organisations.
The commissioning mark the culmination of a phased transformation that began in 2008 with the establishment of a basic health post at the NCS Zone ‘D’ Headquarters in Bauchi. The facility was later upgraded to a clinic and subsequently a medical centre before a 2023 partnership between the NCS and ASR Africa converted it into a 30-bed hospital completed in April 2025.
Following a need assessment, the Comptroller-General approved further remodelling and expansion into a 60-bed secondary healthcare facility with selected tertiary services.
The hospital now houses seven clinical departments – Nursing Services, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Pediatrics, Surgery, Internal Medicine, Pharmacy, and Medical Laboratory alongside Administrative and Health Information Management units, as well as Dental, Radiology, and Nutrition units.
According to officials, the facility is projected to manage up to 300 patients monthly within its first year of operation. Long-term plans include the installation of advanced diagnostic equipment such as CT scan and MRI machines, as well as specialised surgical services aimed at positioning the hospital as a referral centre for the North-East and parts of North-Central Nigeria.
Earlier in the day, Adeniyi paid a courtesy visit to the Emir of Bauchi, Rilwanu Sulaimanu Adamu, where discussions focused on strengthening community partnerships and development.
The Emir commended the Nigeria Customs Service for investing in healthcare infrastructure within the state, noting that the hospital’s expansion enhances both institutional service delivery and community wellbeing while demonstrating responsible leadership.
