Delegates, from European Union, and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), were recently in Kwara State to access health facilities in the state, the team thereby, acknowledged what was seen on ground.
Members of the delegation, in their individual remarks, commended the Kwara State Government for prioritising healthcare, especially through investments in infrastructure and equipment.
Anthony Ayeke, the European Union (EU) Country Health Advisor, expressed satisfaction with the level of progress witnessed, particularly in the area of reproductive health.
He described Kwara’s selection as a pilot state as a well-informed decision and reaffirmed the EU’s continued partnership with the state in advancing its health initiatives.
Similarly, Abigail Msemburi, the representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and Fatima Gohar, the representative of the UNICEF, lauded the state’s efforts in addressing maternal and child mortality, as well as in managing adolescent health challenges.
Also, John Ovuoraye, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare’s representatives, however, urged the Kwara State Government to take full ownership of the project by streamlining administrative processes and ensuring a conducive environment for successful implementation.
He disclosed that Kwara State was one of only three states selected nationwide for the pilot phase of the initiative.
Responding, the Kwara State Government reiterated its commitment to sustain and increase investment in the health sector, aimed at providing effective and efficient healthcare services for its citizens.
Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq gave the the assurance. Abdulrazaq, the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum – represented by Mamman Saba Jibril, the Secretary to the State Government, who received members of the National Steering Committee of the European Union project for Strengthening Access to Reproductive and Adolescent Health (EU-SARAH), expressed delight at hosting the team, particularly including the state as one of the pilot states for the project in Nigeria.
He highlighted the significant investments made by the Abdulrazaq-led administration in the health sector, which have resulted in notable improvements and achievements.
The SSG assured the visiting team of the state’s full cooperation and commitment towards the success of the EU-SARAH project, pledging to provide the necessary support and enabling environment for seamless implementation.
A statement by Mohammed Salihu, Assistant Press Secretary, Office of the Secretary to the State Government, stated that Amina Ahmed El-Imam, the Kwara State Commissioner for Health, stated that the committee’s visit was part of a routine quarterly assessment to evaluate the progress of the project in the state.
She expressed confidence in a positive evaluation, citing the administration’s strong focus on health care delivery.
