Major Health Boost as Tinubu Deploys 79 Life-Saving Ambulances Across Nigeria

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has launched 79 advanced ambulances for distribution to tertiary hospitals across Nigeria as part of efforts to improve emergency medical services and save more lives.

The ambulances were commissioned on Tuesday in Lagos and will be deployed to federal tertiary health institutions under the National Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (NEMSAS).

The initiative forms part of activities marking the third anniversary of the Tinubu administration and is expected to strengthen emergency response capabilities across the country’s healthcare system.

Representing the President at the commissioning ceremony, Chief Medical Director of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Professor Wasiu Lanre Adeyemo, said the deployment would help address one of the biggest challenges in healthcare delivery—getting patients to hospitals quickly during emergencies.

According to him, delayed access to medical care remains a major cause of avoidable deaths and complications in many parts of the country.

“These ambulances will improve the movement of patients from homes, schools, markets, highways and other locations to hospitals where they can receive timely medical attention. This will significantly reduce avoidable deaths and complications arising from delayed access to care,” Adeyemo said.

He explained that the vehicles are Advanced Life Support units equipped with modern medical facilities capable of stabilising patients while they are being transported to hospitals.

The ambulances are also fitted with communication systems that enable medical teams to alert hospitals before arrival, allowing doctors and emergency personnel to prepare for critical cases ahead of time.

In a major boost for local industry, Adeyemo disclosed that the ambulances were assembled entirely in Nigeria, including the installation of emergency medical equipment.

He described the project as evidence of the country’s growing capacity in local manufacturing and healthcare technology.

“These ambulances are a testament to Nigeria’s ability to produce world-class emergency response vehicles locally. Beyond improving emergency healthcare delivery, this initiative will stimulate local manufacturing, create employment opportunities and strengthen confidence in indigenous capacity,” he stated.

Another notable feature of the vehicles is their dual-fuel capability. The ambulances can operate using both Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), supporting the Federal Government’s push for cleaner and more cost-effective energy alternatives.

Adeyemo said the project aligns with broader healthcare reforms being driven by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, particularly efforts aimed at strengthening emergency care systems and expanding access to quality healthcare.

He stressed that modern hospitals alone are not enough if patients cannot reach them quickly during emergencies.

“Healthcare facilities must be accessible when emergencies occur. Efficient emergency transportation is essential to saving lives,” he added.

The Federal Government believes the nationwide deployment of the ambulances will improve referral systems, enhance emergency response times and provide quicker access to life-saving treatment for millions of Nigerians.

Health experts say the initiative could play a critical role in reducing mortality rates, especially in accident cases, maternal emergencies and other life-threatening situations where every minute counts.