ASHENEWS reports that the Niger State government has invested N1.68 billion in salaries for 1,696 health workers across primary, secondary, and tertiary health facilities in a bold move to strengthen healthcare delivery.
The announcement was made during the GAVI-supported PHC System Strengthening MOU close-out ceremony held in Minna.
The investment include the absorption of 396 ad-hoc health workers into the state payroll and the recruitment of 1,300 additional healthcare professionals.
The Niger state Commissioner for Primary Healthcare, Dr. Ibrahim Dangana, emphasized the government’s commitment to sustaining healthcare improvements, particularly through workforce development and training.
“We have recruited over 1,300 healthcare workers to ensure that essential services are provided, especially for women who should not die needlessly when seeking care at health centers,” Dr. Dangana said.
He added that N439 million has already been allocated to pay the salaries of absorbed workers for the next year.
The Commissioner highlighted the success of the MOU in key areas, including leadership, vaccine logistics, data management, community mobilization, and health financing. He pointed to significant strides made in reducing maternal and infant mortality rates.
“At the start of this partnership, over 7,000 children had never received a single dose of immunization. Today, we have reached every one of them,” Dangana stated.
He noted that more women are now visiting healthcare centers for safe deliveries and accessing family planning services.
UNICEF Abuja Health Team Planning Specialist, Anu John, commended the state’s efforts in reaching zero-dose children but urged the government to sustain its commitment.
“Although Niger State is not yet at the national average for routine immunization, with political goodwill and commitment, it can close the gap,” she said.
Dr. Alex Chimbaru, a representative from the World Health Organization (WHO), attributed the decrease in maternal and infant mortality rates to the state government’s dedication and community engagement.
However, he stressed the need for sustained efforts to maintain the progress made.
