The Global Affairs Canada Initiative has committed 15 million Canadian dollars (equivalent to $10.7 million) to support three northern states—Kebbi, Kaduna, and Bauchi.
The initiative aims to strengthen Gender-Responsive Sexual Reproductive Health Rights and Nutrition Services, with a strong emphasis on women, adolescents, and children.
According to PUNCH Healthwise, UNICEF is providing technical assistance for the programme, while state governments will oversee its implementation through Primary Health Centres (PHCs).
Speaking at a training workshop in Birnin Kebbi, UNICEF Chief Field Officer in Sokoto, Mr. Michael Juma, highlighted the goal of achieving Universal Health Coverage and ensuring that no child is left behind.
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He stressed the need for a well-coordinated and impactful health delivery system.
Juma also praised Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris for his strides in improving healthcare, including the recruitment of 500 professional health workers to address manpower shortages.
Canadian Health Manager, Mr. Martin Dohlsten, explained that the five-year intervention would boost maternal and newborn health services in the three beneficiary states.
In response, Kebbi State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Yunusa Isma’il, thanked the Canadian government for its support and reiterated the state’s commitment to healthcare development.
He noted that the government had renovated 14 major health facilities and provided continuous training for newly recruited professionals.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Shehu Koko, emphasised the administration’s focus on revitalising PHCS and developing human resources.
He revealed that 191 more PHCs across Kebbi State would be rehabilitated by the end of the year.
The two-day training session, held at Azbir Hotels in Birnin Kebbi, brought together health practitioners and journalists and is expected to enhance the capacity and implementation efficiency of healthcare delivery in the state.
