December 23, (THEWILL) – Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State says his administration is determined to reduce maternal and child mortality in the state.
Yusuf made the declaration on Monday while launching the second phase of the 2024 Maternal and Neonatal Health (MNCH) Week at Kumbotso in Kumbotso Local Government Area of the state.
This is contained in a statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.
To this end, Dawakin Tofa said the State Government had reinstated routine immunisation services which were abandoned for 18 months under the previous administration in the state
“From the start of his tenure in 2023, Governor Yusuf prioritised maternal and child health, expressing grave concern over the suspension of immunisation programs by the former government”, he said.
According to him, the governor, therefore, ordered the immediate restoration of these essential services and guaranteed timely funding for all immunisation exercises at both the state and federal levels.
“As you all know, health is our second priority after education. Within this sector, we are focusing on maternal and child health to prevent the avoidable loss of lives among pregnant women and their children”, the spokesperson quoted the governor as saying.
He highlighted that the 2024 state budget included robust provisions for immunisation services, ensuring sustainability and accessibility for all.
“Governor Yusuf’s intervention reflects his administration’s resolve to address pressing healthcare challenges and improve the lives of Kano’s most vulnerable residents”, he said.
Earlier, the state Commissioner of Health, Dr Abubakar Labaran Yusuf, announced at the launch that Governor Yusuf would Inaugurate a state-of-the-art clinic dedicated to providing free and comprehensive care for patients living with the disease.
The commissioner said the specialised care center is located at the Murtala Muhammad Specialists Hospital.
He said the facility would offer a wide range of free services, including diagnosis, consultations, medication and surgical operations for sickle cell patients.
He said Governor Yusuf’s unwavering commitment to addressing the burden of sickle cell anaemia stemmed from his campaign promises and as outlined in his blueprint for healthcare reform.
The commissioner said the governor had signed into law a groundbreaking premarital health screening bill, which prohibits marriages between intending couples with similar genotypes in the state, thereby preventing the birth of children with sickle cell anaemia.
“With this initiative, Governor Yusuf is not only tackling the root cause of the disease but also ensuring that those already living with it receive the care and support they need.
“This special care centre is a testament to his administration’s determination to provide relief and hope for victims while fostering a healthier future for the people of Kano State”, he added.
Abdullahi Yusuf is a seasoned journalist, communicator and was previously the Deputy Editor-In-Chief and Zonal Manager, News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, Jos, where he retired on December 15, 2021
