The Embassy of Bulgaria in Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening diplomatic and developmental ties with Nigeria, with a particular focus on the health sector.
This assurance came as the Embassy expressed strong support for the proposed 1,200-bed Multi-functional University Hospital in Ebonyi State — a massive healthcare project that will include associated clinics and an integrated emergency medical services system.
Describing the initiative as “visionary,” the Embassy noted that the project reflects Nigeria’s growing dedication to improving its healthcare system through international partnerships.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by a delegation of Bulgarian investors led by Ms. Velichka Stamenova of Neuro Pharma Group Ltd, the Chargé d’Affaires of the Bulgarian Embassy in Abuja, Mr. Ruben Pirontchev, reiterated Bulgaria’s readiness to deepen cooperation with Nigeria, especially in healthcare.
> “The Embassy will remain fully supportive of this initiative,” Pirontchev said.
“We have many experienced Bulgarian experts who are eager to contribute to meaningful projects such as this. I look forward to receiving updates as the project progresses so that we can keep our government informed and engaged.”
He commended the Ebonyi State Government for prioritizing healthcare delivery and praised the project’s facilitator, Ambassador Young Piero Omatsaye, Africa Coordinator of Jet Age Nation Builders, describing him as “a trusted friend of the Embassy and a respected representative of Nigeria across Europe and beyond.”
Pirontchev added that the project would not only enhance access to quality medical services but also strengthen bilateral relations between Nigeria and Bulgaria. He also expressed interest in visiting Ebonyi State soon, noting that he had heard “many wonderful things about the state.”
Leading the Ebonyi delegation, Hon. Solomon Azi, Commissioner for Grants and Donor Agencies, emphasized that Governor Francis Nwifuru places citizens’ welfare at the heart of his administration.
> “Our governor is deeply passionate about the health needs of the people,” Azi said.
“This project aligns with his vision to provide accessible and quality healthcare to every citizen. The Ebonyi Government is fully committed to supporting and facilitating this partnership.”
On his part, Ambassador Omatsaye revealed that the hospital would be implemented in multiple phases — from foundation to furnishing and eventual management — to ensure long-term quality and sustainability.
He explained that the Ebonyi State Government would provide 30% counterpart funding, while Neuro Pharma Ltd and its partner construction firms from Bulgaria, Turkey, and Rwanda would contribute between 40% and 70% of the total investment. The project would also incorporate staff training and knowledge transfer to boost local capacity.
> “This is not just about building a facility,” Omatsaye said.
“It’s about creating a sustainable health system that can serve the people for generations. With the government’s commitment and the Embassy’s support, we are confident this project will be successfully completed.”
When completed, the Ebonyi 1,200-bed Multi-functional University Hospital is expected to rank among the largest and most advanced health facilities in Nigeria and Africa, marking a major milestone in public-private partnership and international cooperation in the continent’s healthcare sector.
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