Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, has announced the allocation of N670 million to address malnutrition and improve maternal and child health services across the state.
The governor revealed this during the launch of the second Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health (MNCH) Week in Kumbotso Local Government Area.
He emphasised his administration’s determination to enhance healthcare delivery for vulnerable populations.
Out of the allocated funds, he said N500 million will be used as counterpart funding for nutrition programmes in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
These initiatives, the governor stated will target malnutrition among children and pregnant women in the state.
He added that an additional N170 million has been designated for renovating and upgrading malnutrition treatment and referral centres.
Governor Yusuf reaffirmed his commitment to improving child and maternal health, stating, “Our administration is dedicated to tackling malnutrition and preventing diseases that threaten the lives of our children. This funding represents a bold step toward creating a healthier and more secure future for families in Kano.”
The MNCH Week initiative aims to provide essential healthcare services, including immunizations, antenatal care, and nutritional supplements.
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The programme also features public health campaigns designed to educate women and children on critical health issues.
The governor noted that these efforts are part of a larger plan to strengthen Kano State’s healthcare system and reduce maternal and child mortality rates.
“This initiative is vital to our broader strategy of building a robust healthcare infrastructure. We are committed to ensuring that every resident has access to quality healthcare,” he stated.
However, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, the governor’s spokesperson, described the investment as a transformative step in addressing health challenges in the state.
“Governor Yusuf’s vision is clear: no child in Kano should face the risk of malnutrition or lack basic healthcare. This funding will bring hope and relief to thousands of families,” he said.
More so, healthcare professionals and community leaders praised the government’s commitment.
Amina Bello, a paediatrician at Murtala Mohammed Specialist Hospital, commented, “This initiative is a crucial intervention. Malnutrition remains a significant challenge in Kano, and with this funding, we can make substantial progress in improving health outcomes.”
