Sokoto state governor Ahmed Aliyu has inaugurated the distribution of essential drugs and Mama kits worth N1.66 billion to 244 Primary Health Centres (PHCs) across the state’s 23 local government areas, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to improving healthcare at the grassroots.
Speaking at the event held at Government House, on Wednesday, the governor highlighted the significance of the initiative in ensuring accessible and affordable healthcare, particularly for women, children, and vulnerable groups.
“We have expended N1,663,245,000 on the purchase of essential drugs, including anti-helminthic and hem tonic drugs, under-five children’s drugs, maternal health drugs, misoprostol, chlorhexidine gel, and Mama delivery kits,” Aliyu announced.
The governor emphasized that the drugs were procured based on requests from local government councils to sustain free healthcare services in rural areas.
He noted that his administration had continued the free medical care programme introduced by former Governor Aliyu Wamakko, which provides free medical services for pregnant women, children, and the elderly.
Warns against diversion
Aliyu warned against the diversion of the drugs, issuing a stern directive to local government chairmen and health officials to ensure proper distribution.
“I warn all local government chairmen and health personnel against diverting these drugs. The government will deal decisively with anyone found sabotaging this effort,” he cautioned, calling on security agencies to remain vigilant.
He reiterated his administration’s resolve to sustain programmes that improve the lives of Sokoto residents, urging the public to support government policies aimed at enhancing healthcare delivery.
The event concluded with the official flag-off of the drug distribution, ensuring that PHCs across Sokoto State receive the much-needed medical supplies.