Musa Na Allah, Sokoto
Sokoto State Government has commenced the distribution of essential drugs and Mama Kits for pregnant and nursing mothers for all primary healthcare centers across the state’s 244 political wards.
The flag-off ceremony held at the Government House marked a significant step in fulfilling one of the Governor’s key campaign promises.
Speaking at the event, Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto expressed his excitement: “I am highly delighted to be with you this evening for the distribution of essential drugs and Mama Kits to the 244 Primary Health Centres in all the 23 local government areas of the state.”
The initiative, part of his 9-point smart agenda, aims to improve healthcare delivery at the grassroots levels.
According to the Governor, improving the quality of healthcare services is one of the administration’s top priorities.
“This program is part of my modest effort to boost healthcare service delivery for the people at the grassroots.”
“We have expended the sum of N1,663,245,000 for the purchase of these drugs, which include antihelminthic and hematinic drugs for children under five, drugs for mothers and children, Misoprostol, chlorohexidine gel, and Mama delivery kits.”
The drugs were procured based on requests made by the local government councils to sustain the state’s free healthcare delivery in rural areas, the Governor stressed.
“Since we came on board, we have given healthcare service delivery the attention it deserves because of the strong belief we have that ‘A healthy society is a wealthy society.’ As such, we have made healthcare services accessible and affordable to all.”
Governor Aliyu reaffirmed the continuation of the free medical care program, originally introduced by former Governor Sen. Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko.
The program provides free medical services to pregnant mothers, children, and the elderly across the state.
“This free medical care program has helped the needy and other vulnerable groups access drugs and medical services at no cost,” he explained.
“It has greatly encouraged our rural populace, especially pregnant mothers, to attend antenatal care, which has contributed to a reduction in maternal mortality and child morbidity in the state.”
The Governor urged local government chairmen and healthcare personnel to refrain from diverting the drugs, promising strict action against any violators.
“I want to warn local government chairmen and indeed all personnel who have direct access to drugs against diversion. Government will deal decisively with anyone found sabotaging this effort,” he said.
He also called on security agencies to be vigilant in preventing drug diversion.
Governor Aliyu concluded by reaffirming his administration’s commitment to the welfare of the people at the grassroots and urging continued support for government policies.
“We will continue to introduce programs that will improve the lives of our people,” he stated.
“I call on the people of Sokoto State to support our policies so we can build a better state for all.”
