Residents Decry Abandoned Hospital in Goneri, Seek Government Intervention

By Saddam Mohammed

Residents of Goneri community in Damare Ward, Girei Local Government Area of Adamawa State, have expressed deep concern over an abandoned healthcare facility constructed in 2013 under the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

The hospital, which was part of a national initiative to establish healthcare centres across Nigeria’s 774 local government areas, has remained non-functional for over a decade, despite reportedly receiving an allocation of about ₦500 million at the time of construction.

Speaking to our correspondent, community members lamented that the building has become an empty structure with no medical services, equipment, or personnel, leaving residents to struggle for healthcare in emergencies.

“My name is Yahya Usman Goneri,” a community leader said. “We are ready to see this hospital working. Goneri is a historic village and development is expected here. If this hospital is opened, it will reduce our suffering and improve our health conditions.”

Another resident, Adamu Ibrahim, appealed to government authorities to intervene urgently.

“We are pleading with the government to come to our aid. This hospital means a lot to us,” he said.

According to the village head, Usman Abdullahi Goneri, the facility was never equipped properly. He disclosed that the community rejected some items brought to the hospital because they were old and inadequate.

“They brought only four foams, six beds and four rubber chairs. These items were not suitable for a new hospital,” he explained, adding that the building currently contains only ceiling fans and light fittings.

Residents say the absence of healthcare services has continued to endanger lives, especially pregnant women, children, and the elderly.

“If this hospital is opened, it will save lives during emergencies,” said Kabiru Abdulkadir.

“Pregnant women, children and old people suffer the most because the nearest health facility is far away.”

Another resident, Fadimatu, expressed hope that the government would act swiftly.

“I will be very happy if the hospital is opened. It will help the whole community,” she said.

Similarly, Mallam Babayo AD called on authorities at all levels to take responsibility.

“Whether it is the federal, state or local government, whoever is responsible should please complete the hospital so that the people can benefit,” he appealed.

For Jummai David, who has lived in the area for over a decade, the situation is becoming unbearable.

“We are suffering, especially when it comes to maternal care. Women give birth under difficult conditions because there is no hospital,” she said.

Residents also noted that the hospital lacks basic infrastructure such as a transformer and borehole, making it impossible to operate even if equipment were provided. They estimated the population of the area and its surroundings to be close to three million people who could benefit from the facility.

Reacting to the situation, the Adamawa State Commissioner for Health, Mr. Felix Bilishan Tangwami, said the state government was not aware of the project’s status.

“We are not aware of the facility that was built in Goneri, but I assure you that when we resume next year, I will find out from the Chairman of the Hospital Management Board and take necessary action,” the commissioner stated.

The abandoned Goneri hospital stands as a symbol of unmet promises, highlighting the need for stronger accountability and coordination between federal and state authorities to ensure public projects serve their intended purpose.