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| Kashim Shettima |
Vice President Kashim Shettima recently clarified why he instructed the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) to promptly reopen Sahad Stores, a popular supermarket in Abuja owned by his friend, Ibrahim Mijinyawa. This action followed the FCCPC's temporary closure of the store due to violations related to pricing practices.
Speaking at the inauguration of Sahad Hospitals in Abuja, Shettima acknowledged the significant role that Sahad Stores plays in the lives of many Nigerians. He explained that his decision was driven by the store's positive impact on the community, emphasizing that Mijinyawa, the store's owner, is a generous individual whose business has benefitted countless people.
Earlier this year, the FCCPC had conducted a surprise inspection of Sahad Stores, which revealed discrepancies in pricing practices—specifically, the display of lower prices on shelves, while higher prices were charged at checkout. This contravened regulations under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) of 2018. The store was temporarily shut down, and the FCCPC initiated further investigations and discussions with the store's management.
The vice president’s intervention led to the store's reopening, following assurances from Sahad Stores to comply with transparent pricing standards. This decision was also supported by the FCCPC after reaching a mutual understanding with the store.
During the hospital commissioning event, Shettima lauded the private sector's role in addressing healthcare challenges in Nigeria, especially in light of the ongoing brain drain in the medical field. He noted that the new hospital marks a significant development in the country’s healthcare system, complementing the government's efforts to improve health services.
The Minister of State for Health, Dr. Tunji Alausa, also praised the investment in the hospital, noting its importance in improving healthcare accessibility for Nigerians. The hospital, a 200-bed facility with modern medical equipment, is expected to significantly contribute to reducing medical tourism and enhancing the overall healthcare landscape in Nigeria.
As the government continues to promote healthcare sector reforms, partnerships with private entities like Sahad Hospitals are seen as crucial for achieving sustainable development and improving the quality of life for all Nigerians.
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