UNICEF, Kaduna State collaborate on comprehensive Healthcare delivery

The United Nations Children Funds (UNICEF), in collaboration with the Kaduna State Government organised a two-day health retreat for newly elected local government chairpersons in Kano state.

Kaduna state deputy governor, Dr Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe urged the chairpersons during the event to prioritize effective primary healthcare management, describing Primary Health Centres (PHCs) as the foundation of the healthcare system.

Dr Hadiza explained that the state government was committed to eradicating maternal and child mortality, promoting nutrition, adolescent issues, immunization among others.

“We’ve had our challenges, but we’ve also recorded some gains. We realize that if we get it right at this level, we will get the other levels right as well,” she stressed.

UNICEF, health specialist in Kaduna, Dr Idris Bawa, in his remarks says that, local government chairpersons are key drivers of their citizens’ survival and development.

Dr Bawa mentioned that, the retreat primary objective was to train them on strategic resource allocation for quality healthcare services and to provide technical support.

Also voice of Nigeria gathered during the event, in an interview with UNICEF chief social and behaviour change, Mr Kshitij Joshi, that the objective of the meeting primarily is to orient and engaged the newly elected chairpersons.

Mr Joshi added that the meeting is also to bring everyone together in sharing ideas and opportunity to collaborate in achieving positive health results of children, women in Kaduna state

Adding that, “The retreat was an amazing opportunity for both partner’s developments in sharing ideas that can move Kaduna state and the nation forward.”

The retreat’s attendees, including 23 local government chairpersons, the commissioner of health, and other stakeholders, demonstrated a strong commitment to improving healthcare outcomes.

The chairpersons Giwa and Jaba local government areas, Alhaji Ahmed Sama’ila and Larai Sylvia Ishaku pledged to prioritize effective healthcare service delivery.

“This collaborative effort aligns with UNICEF’s broader initiatives in Nigeria, focusing on strengthening healthcare systems, promoting immunization, and reducing maternal and child mortality.”

By empowering local governments leaders, UNICEF and the Kaduna State Government aim to create a lasting impact on the health and wellbeing of their citizens.