The Sokoto State Government has acquired nine ultrasound machines and three X-ray machines to improve healthcare services in general hospitals across the state.
Dr Faruku Wurno, the Commissioner for Health, announced this during an interview with journalists in Sokoto on Monday.
He stated that the ultrasound machines have been distributed to nine general hospitals, with the three X-ray machines allocated one to each of the state’s three senatorial districts.
“The people don’t have to travel to Sokoto for investigations,” Wurno said, noting that these efforts will reduce the need for rural patients to travel to the state capital for diagnostic services.
Wurno highlighted that the health sector has seen significant revival under Governor Ahmad Aliyu’s administration, which inherited a sector “in the Intensive Care Unit” but has since repositioned it for efficient service delivery.
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He explained that the government has adopted a dual approach, investing in both curative and preventive healthcare to enhance health outcomes statewide.
A comprehensive needs assessment revealed critical gaps, leading to the development of a strategic framework addressing challenges at primary, secondary, and tertiary healthcare levels.
Additionally, Wurno noted that 10 general hospitals are undergoing phased rehabilitation, with many facilities now equipped with new beds, incubators, solar-powered systems, and 24-hour water supply through boreholes and overhead tanks.
The government is also prioritising the completion of two previously abandoned general hospitals in the Dange-Shuni and Wamakko Local Government Areas.
“This government is not just reacting alone; we plan for programmes to serve as game-changers, because health is wealth,” he said.