In Nigeria, the Niger State Government has greenlit the immediate recruitment of 1,000 healthcare professionals, coupled with the automatic replacement of retired personnel in the sector.
Speaking at a press briefing held at the government house in Minna on Wednesday, Dr. Ibrahim Dangana, the Commissioner for Primary Health Care, made the announcement.
Underscoring the commitment of Governor Umar Bago’s administration, Dr. Dangana emphasised the imperative of ensuring widespread, high-quality, and affordable healthcare services throughout the state.
Identifying the dearth of manpower as a primary challenge in the state’s healthcare sector, Dr. Dangana pledged to address the deficit to ensure comprehensive antenatal care services.
He elaborated on plans to enhance family planning services and bolster referral systems across all primary healthcare (PHC) centres in the state.
Furthermore, Dr. Dangana highlighted the implementation of stringent monitoring mechanisms across PHCs to rectify any irregularities and meet the populace’s healthcare needs and aspirations.
Reaffirming the government’s resolve to facilitate efficient and effective healthcare delivery, Dr. Dangana outlined initiatives to augment both human resources and infrastructure.
He disclosed plans to construct and equip a state-of-the-art Emergency Operation Centre (EOP) in Minna, tasked with overseeing and coordinating vital services at PHCs statewide.
Moreover, Dr. Dangana revealed collaborative efforts with the Ministry of Works to develop technical and structural designs, with funding to be sourced via the Planning Commission.
In addition, the commissioner outlined government approval for the rehabilitation and upgrade of dysfunctional primary healthcare centres, along with the reinstatement of medical student scholarships and bond programmes to counter the medical brain drain.
Highlighting ongoing partnerships, Dr. Dangana underscored the state’s cooperation with various development partners, including the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, among others.
He affirmed the Ministry of Primary Health Care’s unwavering commitment to providing affordable, accessible, and high-quality primary healthcare services to the people of Niger State.
