FCTA Approves #1.74bn Contract for 12 New High-Tech Ambulances to Boost Emergency Response in Abuja
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has approved a ₦1.74 billion contract for the purchase of 12 brand-new, state-of-the-art ambulances aimed at strengthening emergency medical services across Abuja.
The Mandate Secretary of Health, Environment, and Human Services, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, disclosed this after the FCT Executive Council meeting on Friday, noting that this marks the first time in nearly a decade that the city will receive new emergency ambulances.
According to her, the ambulances, Toyota Hiace Hiroof (2023/2024 models), meet international technical standards and have already been delivered. Commissioning is expected soon.
“For the first time in nine years, the FCT will get 12 brand new special ambulances built to international specifications. They’ve been delivered and will be commissioned soon,” Fasawe said.
She added that the initiative, spearheaded by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, is part of a broader plan to digitize hospital emergency systems, enabling real-time access to information on hospital capacity and available beds.
The Secretary further announced a collaboration with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to enhance the 112 toll-free emergency line, which will link callers to the nearest ambulance through agencies such as FEMA, NEMSAS, and the FCT Health Insurance Scheme.
Fasawe emphasized that the FCTA has zero tolerance for using ambulances to convey corpses, describing the practice as unethical and unsafe. She revealed that plans are underway to procure dedicated hearses in the next budget cycle.
