Plan International, with support from Global Affairs Canada, has officially launched the distribution of essential medical equipment across 54 health facilities in Sokoto State.
The flag-off ceremony was held at Gagi Primary Healthcare Center in Sokoto, where the State Commissioner of Health, Dr. Umar Abubakar, assured the public that the equipment would be distributed transparently and responsibly.
Dr. Farouk emphasized that directors and those in charge have been instructed to ensure accountability and that no item should be diverted to any private hospital.
He commended Plan International for providing equipment worth millions of naira, describing the donation as a significant boost to the state government’s efforts to enhance healthcare delivery across the 23 local government areas.
The Commissioner also announced plans to expand the Gagi Health Center, citing the high number of people benefiting from its services. He noted that the center is one of over 100 Primary Healthcare Centers currently undergoing complete renovation in the state.
As part of the initiative, he revealed that solar panels would be installed at the facility to improve the reliability of healthcare services.
Speaking on behalf of Plan International, Fatima Rabo, a Health Officer in Sokoto, said their assessments revealed a widespread shortage of equipment in local hospitals.
This informed their decision to support the government by supplying critical healthcare equipment.
“The government cannot do it alone,” she added, stressing the importance of partnerships in delivering quality healthcare.
In his vote of thanks, the Primary Health Care Coordinator for Sokoto South Local Government, Usman Shehu expressed gratitude to Plan International. He assured stakeholders that the equipment would be properly distributed and effectively utilized.
The donated items include hospital beds, chairs, hand sanitizers, and waste bins, among other essentials.
