Musa Na Allah Sokoto
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in collaboration with Sokoto State Government unveiled the Guidelines for the Procurement of Family Planning Commodities.
The State Deputy Governor, Alhaji Idris Gobir, who unveiled the guidelines on Friday, enumerated the importance of guidelines in addressing the gaps in the supply chain of family planning programs.
The Deputy Governor who was represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Community Development, Hon. Ibrahim Dadi Adare, reiterated the state’s commitment to addressing healthcare problems in the state.
He described the state government partnership with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3 and Family Planning Objectives 2023 as prerequisites to achieve success in both national and international development goals.
He however acknowledged the importance of access to contraceptives in reducing maternal and child mortality rates.
“With support from stakeholders and other Development partners, Sokoto state government has over the years strived hard to ensure free access to family planning services in healthcare facilities across the state.”
He disçlosed that, the Sokoto state government has set aside a dedicated fund for family planning services with budgetary allocation and unhindered release of funds for procurements.
“Sokoto state had already established a Family Planning Technical Working Group with a view to complement the efforts of the implementing partners who are supportive of family planning programs in the state.
The wife of the Sokoto state governor, Hajiya Fatima Aliyu, explores the importance of family planning in enhancing societal health.
The Assistant Representative, Reproductive Health Specialist, Dr Audu Alayande in his address advocated for the establishment of a distinct budget line for Sexual Reproductive Health (SRH) activities.
He further suggested the need for the allocation of one percent of the state health budget, with constant cash backing for the procurement of the state family planning consumables.
