The Federal Government has inaugurated 16 legacy projects at the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital (FNPH), Kware, Sokoto State  a landmark achievement hailed as a model of excellence in public healthcare delivery. The event, which drew stakeholders from across the health and traditional sectors, also spotlighted the remarkable leadership of the outgoing Medical Director and Chief Executive Officer, Professor Shehu Sale, whose tenure has been marked by transformation and visionary progress.


Inaugurating the projects, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, commended Prof. Sale and his management team for their unwavering commitment to reforming the institution into a modern, world-class facility.

“These projects are not just physical structures,” Dr. Salako stated, “they are symbols of a renewed hope in our health system, and proof of what leadership, vision, and dedication can accomplish. Prof. Shehu Sale has demonstrated all three in abundance.”

The Minister who described the projects as "monuments of integrity, efficiency, and transformational leadership, said:

“This hospital has become a model of excellence in psychiatric care not just for Sokoto State or the Northwest, but for the entire country,”. “It is a testament to what strong leadership, commitment to service, and community partnership can achieve. Professor Shehu Sale has set a standard that others must follow.”

The projects include A state-of-the-art Molecular Laboratory, newly built male ward complex, female ward complex, general outpatient department (GOPD) extension, forensic ward, biohazard waste incinerator, completed Emergency Unit.
Others are renovated medical director’s office, administrative block extension, two large conference halls for staff training and development, e-Library and ICT Centre, modernized pharmacy complex, upgraded water treatment plant, newly constructed Staff Quarters, upgraded power Infrastructure with solar backup systems and renovated recreational facilities for patients' rehabilitation.

In an emotional speech during the commissioning, Prof. Sale reflected on the hospital’s journey under his leadership. “When we began this mission, FNPH Kware was in dire need of modern infrastructure and public trust. Today, we have not only built structures, we have restored dignity, improved access, and reaffirmed the importance of mental health in national development.”

The hospital's transformation did not go unnoticed by the local community. In recognition of his monumental contributions, the District Head of Kware, Alhaji Muhammadu Dan’ya, conferred on Prof. Shehu Sale the revered traditional title of Zaruman Kware, meaning “Pillar of Kware.”

The turbaning ceremony, which took place shortly after the project inauguration, was a colourful and emotional affair attended by traditional rulers, community leaders, government officials, and residents who came to pay tribute to a man they now call a community icon.

“The title of Zaruman Kware is reserved for individuals who give of themselves selflessly and elevate our people through service,” said Alhaji Dan’ya. “Prof. Shehu Sale did not just build a hospital he built hope.”

As Prof. Sale prepares to hand over leadership, he leaves behind a legacy that merges the power of policy, infrastructure, and cultural appreciation proving that modern medicine and traditional honour can walk hand in hand in the service of humanity.

His story is a shining reminder that in the heart of Sokoto, a quiet revolution in mental healthcare has taken root led by a man whose vision will echo for generations.