Customs Chief Commissions ASR-Funded 60-Bed Hospital in Bauchi, Pledges Improved Healthcare Access
The Comptroller-General of Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi, has commissioned a newly constructed 60-bed hospital in Bauchi, describing the facility as a strategic investment in personnel welfare and community health.
The healthcare facility – built and donated by Abdul Samad Rabiu, Chairman of ASR Africa and founder of BUA Group – is expected to significantly enhance access to medical services for Customs officers, their families, and residents of host communities across Zone ‘D’ and neighbouring states.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony on Tuesday, 17 February 2026, Adeniyi emphasised that the project demonstrates the Service’s commitment to strengthening institutional capacity through improved staff 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 Comptroller-General noted that the hospital’s development aligns with broader reforms aimed at enhancing operational efficiency while ensuring officers benefit from modern support systems.
Private Sector Partnership Praised
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of ASR Africa, Ubon Udoh, highlighted the sustainability focus of the intervention, describing it as an example of 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 stated.
Representing Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, Secretary to the State Government Aminu Hammayo said the hospital would strengthen the state’s healthcare ecosystem and complement existing public facilities.
“This facility will improve access to specialised services and reflects the value of collaboration between government and responsible corporate entities,” he said.
The commissioning marks the culmination of an 18-year transformation. The site began as a modest health post established in 2008 at the Zone ‘D’ headquarters. It was later upgraded to a clinic and subsequently to a medical centre.
A 2023 partnership between the Customs Service and ASR Africa converted the centre into a 30-bed hospital, completed in April 2025. Following a needs assessment, Adeniyi approved further remodelling and expansion, resulting in the present 60-bed secondary healthcare facility with selected tertiary services.
The hospital now houses seven clinical departments – Nursing Services, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Paediatrics, Surgery, Internal Medicine, Pharmacy, and Medical Laboratory – as well as Administrative and Health Information Management units. Additional specialised units include Dental, Radiology, and Nutrition services.
Officials project the hospital will treat up to 300 patients monthly in its first year, with long-term plans to introduce advanced diagnostics such as CT and MRI scanning, alongside specialised surgical procedures. These upgrades are expected to position the facility as a referral centre for parts of the North-East and North-Central regions.
Royal Commendation
Earlier in the day, Adeniyi paid a courtesy visit to the Emir of Bauchi, Rilwanu Sulaimanu Adamu, who commended the Service for investing in healthcare infrastructure within the state.
The monarch described the hospital’s expansion as a model of responsible leadership, noting that it strengthens institutional service delivery while improving community wellbeing.
