By Ahmed Rufa’i, Dutse
In a major boost to healthcare delivery, the Jigawa State Government has expanded its free healthcare program to cover 235,287 vulnerable residents across the state’s 287 political wards.
This initiative aligns with Governor Malam Umar Namadi’s 12-point agenda, prioritizing accessible and affordable healthcare services.
Speaking at the distribution of drugs and medical equipment worth over N215 million to primary healthcare centers, Malam Isah Surajo, Technical Assistant to the Governor on Healthcare Services, highlighted the administration’s dedication to improving health infrastructure and services.
The program initially covered 143,287 beneficiaries—500 individuals per ward. However, Governor Namadi has approved an additional 320 beneficiaries per ward, ensuring more vulnerable people receive free medical treatment.
As part of the plan, the government has recruited over 1,000 health workers, assigning at least 30 to each local government area. It has also embarked on constructing and equipping staff quarters at primary healthcare centers to create a conducive work environment for medical personnel.
Complementing the state’s efforts, the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) has contributed N135 million quarterly, enabling the procurement of essential medicines and non-consumable medical supplies.
Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Alhaji Ahmed Garba Maikudi, noted that this intervention supports residents who are not covered by the state’s Social Insurance Scheme.
The donated items include drugs for children and pregnant women, malaria treatments, delivery kits, mattresses, and hospital beds. These resources aim to enhance service delivery and improve maternal and child health outcomes.
Governor Namadi’s healthcare reforms and ALGON’s partnership underscore a shared commitment to reducing preventable deaths and ensuring that no resident is denied medical care due to financial constraints.