Residents of Abuja have been cautioned that ambulances will no longer be used to convey corpses, as the FCTA implements measures to ensure ethical use of emergency vehicles.
The Health Services and Environment Secretariat (HSES) Secretary, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, made this known on Friday while briefing journalists after the fifth meeting of the FCT Executive Committee, chaired by Minister, Nyesom Wike.
Fasawe announced the ratification of a contract for 12 brand-new, fully equipped ambulances and stated that the administration will soon procure dedicated hearses to prevent the misuse of emergency medical vehicles.
According to her, “In the FCT, we have zero tolerance for an ambulance to carry a corpse. It is not ethical, as a living person may lie on the same stretcher without proper decontamination. We are therefore planning to purchase hearses in the next budget specifically for transporting dead bodies.
The Health Secretary explained that the 12 newly acquired Toyota Hiace Hiroof ambulances (2023–2024 models) are “specially fitted to international standards” and will soon be commissioned across the territory.
“For the first time in nearly nine years, the FCT is getting 12 brand-new special ambulances. These state-of-the-art vehicles come equipped with Bluetooth systems, airbags, keyless entry, and advanced medical fittings. They have been delivered and will be commissioned soon”.
Fasawe said the new ambulances would significantly improve emergency response times in the capital, especially with recent road rehabilitation that now provides easier access to suburban communities.
“A journey that used to take 20 minutes now takes five. With these ambulances, it may take just three minutes to reach a patient in need. This is another example of how the FCT system is working efficiently under the current administration,” she noted. Residents in need of emergency medical assistance can call 112, the national emergency line, which is operational in Abuja.
The Council also considered over 22 memoranda, approving 14 new contracts and ratifying eight others, covering key sectors including agriculture, health, water supply, youth development, and education.
Acting Executive Secretary of the FCDA, Richard Dauda, revealed that Council approved a contract for the construction of an alternative access road to the old Federal Secretariat in Durumi, which houses several key ministries, as well as the resurfacing of existing roads in the area.
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