The Bayelsa State Government, in partnership with the Federal Government and Zipline, has taken a major step to improve healthcare delivery by expanding its medical drone service network.
This initiative aims to ensure that remote communities receive essential medicines, vaccines, and emergency medical supplies on time.
This development was shared to THE PUNCH on Sunday
A new Zipline distribution centre was recently commissioned in Yenagoa, the state capital, by the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, and Governor Douye Diri.
The facility will serve as a hub for rapid and reliable distribution of medical supplies across Bayelsa, which covers a vast area of 38,000 square kilometres.
Governor Diri highlighted how the state’s riverine terrain makes traditional supply chains difficult.
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“The Zipline technology is a tailor-made response and solution to the obstacles to timely delivery of pharmaceutical supplies posed by the state’s unique riverine terrain. Through the use of drone technology, over twenty thousand zero-dose children have been vaccinated, ensuring a healthy start to life,” he said.
Since launching in Bayelsa in 2023, Zipline has delivered over one million vaccine doses and more than 71,000 units of essential medicines. The company has also played a crucial role in vaccination campaigns, particularly for children who have not received any previous immunization.
With drones capable of flying up to 200 km per trip in all weather conditions, Zipline is now expanding to serve 73 out of Bayelsa’s 83 wards. The goal is to prevent stockouts in hospitals and clinics, improve emergency response times, and make healthcare delivery faster and more efficient.
Prof. Pate emphasized that technology is a key part of the federal government’s plan to improve healthcare nationwide. “We are committed to using innovative solutions like Zipline’s drone services to bridge the gap between urban and rural healthcare access,” he stated.
Akin Oyediran, Zipline Nigeria’s Partnerships Executive, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to working with the government to strengthen the health system. “This initiative is about saving lives and ensuring that even the most remote communities receive the medical care they need,” he said.
With this expansion, Bayelsa is positioning itself as a leader in the use of drone technology for healthcare delivery in Nigeria. The initiative is expected to make a significant impact, particularly in emergency response and routine medical supply distribution across the state.
