Bulgaria Pledges Stronger Ties with Nigeria, Commends Ebonyi’s 1,200-Bed Hospital Initiative

The Embassy of Bulgaria in Nigeria has expressed strong support for a groundbreaking 1,200-bed multi-functional university hospital project set to be built in Ebonyi State, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening diplomatic and development ties with Nigeria.

The hospital, which will include modern clinics and an integrated emergency medical services system, is expected to be one of the most advanced healthcare facilities in Nigeria and across Africa. It aims to revolutionize access to healthcare in the region and serve as a model for international cooperation in the sector.

Describing the project as “visionary,” the Embassy said it reflects Nigeria’s growing resolve to transform its health system through strategic global partnerships. The remarks were made during a courtesy visit by a delegation of Bulgarian investors, led by Ms. Velichka Stamenova of Neuro Pharma Group Ltd, to the Embassy in Abuja.

Mr. Ruben Pirontchev, the Chargé d’Affaires of the Bulgarian Embassy, praised the project’s scope and ambition, saying Bulgaria is ready to contribute its expertise to ensure its success.

“This initiative is a shining example of what can be achieved through collaboration,” Pirontchev said. “We have many experienced professionals in Bulgaria ready to support meaningful projects like this one. The Embassy is fully behind it and will keep our government informed as it progresses.”

He also extended his appreciation to Ambassador Young Piero Omatsaye, Africa Coordinator of Jet Age Nation Builders and facilitator of the project, calling him “a trusted friend of the Embassy” and “a respected and well-connected representative of Nigeria across Europe.”

Pirontchev commended the Ebonyi State Government for its commitment to improving healthcare and expressed eagerness to visit the state soon, saying he had heard “many wonderful things.”

Leading the Ebonyi State delegation, Hon. Solomon Azi, Commissioner for Grants and Donor Agencies, reaffirmed Governor Francis Nwifuru’s focus on the health and welfare of the people.

“Our governor is passionate about delivering quality healthcare to every citizen,” Azi said. “This project aligns perfectly with that vision, and the state government is fully committed to supporting and facilitating this partnership.”

Ambassador Omatsaye outlined the implementation plan, noting that the hospital would be delivered in several phases—from construction and furnishing to management and staff training—to ensure long-term sustainability.

He revealed that Ebonyi State would contribute 30% of the funding, while the remaining 40% to 70% would come from Neuro Pharma and construction partners from Bulgaria, Turkey, and Rwanda. He added that the project also includes robust capacity-building efforts to train local medical personnel and ensure knowledge transfer.

“This is more than just building a hospital,” Omatsaye said. “It’s about building a sustainable health system that will serve generations. With strong government backing and Bulgaria’s support, we’re confident this project will be a landmark achievement.”

Once completed, the 1,200-bed hospital is expected to become one of the largest and most advanced in Africa, showcasing the power of public-private partnerships and cross-border collaboration to improve healthcare across the continent.