Kaduna launches emergency ambulance system to improve healthcare access

Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has inaugurated the Kaduna State Medical Services and Ambulance System (KADSEMSAS), aimed at improving access to life-saving healthcare and cutting response times during emergencies.

Speaking at the launch, Governor Sani described the initiative as a landmark in his administration’s commitment to universal health coverage. “This is not just about providing ambulances, but about guaranteeing every resident the right to rapid medical attention,” he said.

The system features a fleet of fully equipped ambulances, a central dispatch centre with trained personnel, and paramedics to stabilise patients before hospital transfer. It will operate across all 23 local councils, including rural areas, and will be accessible through a dedicated emergency number.

Under the scheme, patients will receive free emergency care for the first 48 hours, with special focus on pregnant women, children, and accident victims. Officials say this will help reduce preventable deaths, particularly in maternal and neonatal cases.

Health Commissioner Umma Ahmed hailed the programme as a major step in strengthening Kaduna’s healthcare system. The initiative also builds on the state’s integration into the National Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (NEMSAS) in 2024, with hopes it will become a model for other states.

Governor Sani added that investments are ongoing in upgrading hospitals, training health workers, and ensuring community participation to sustain the system beyond the launch phase.