Major Boost To Healthcare In Gombe As State Commissions 114 Modernised Centres
By Muhammad Faruk Bayu, Gombe
Gombe State has achieved another milestone in healthcare delivery with the commissioning of 114 revitalised Primary Health Care (PHC) facilities across the state.
The commissioning ceremony held at Akko PHC was presided over by the deputy governor, Dr. Manassah Daniel Jatau, on behalf of Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya.
The project is part of the state’s drive to strengthen healthcare services and make them more accessible to the people.
Dr Jatau described the event as a “testament to the administration’s commitment to the health and well-being of the people,” noting that health remains the foundation of all human activity.
Since Governor Yahaya took office in 2019, funding for healthcare in Gombe has risen from 3.5% to 15% of the state budget, in line with the Abuja Declaration. The government has also established the Gombe State Contributory Health Agency with over 300,000 beneficiaries and improved drug supply through the Drug Management Agency.
According to the deputy governor, 103 PHCs and 66 additional health clinics have been revitalised with support from the World Bank’s IMPACT project. The upgraded facilities now boast solar power, clean water, modern equipment, and staff accommodations.
“As we commission these facilities, I emphasise the need for local ownership and sustainability. We must ensure they continue to serve our citizens for years to come,” Dr Jatau said.
Commissioner for Health Dr Habu Dahiru explained that the initiative was aimed at tackling poor health indices in maternal care, malnutrition, and vaccination coverage. He called on community leaders to mobilise residents to fully utilise the facilities.
Dr. Onoriode Ezire, Technical Team Lead of the IMPACT project, praised the state for its prudent use of funds.
“Gombe State has set an example by constructing high-quality health structures with little funds across Nigeria,” he noted.
Similarly, the National Project Coordinator of IMPACT, Dr Amina Abdu One Mohammed, stressed the importance of sustaining the investment.
“Now that structures, personnel, and drugs are in place, all stakeholders must ensure people are encouraged to access these services,” she said.
Other speakers including the Chairman of the PHC Development Agency, Dr Ahmed Abubakar Kashere, and community leaders from Akko pledged to ensure proper use and maintenance of the facilities.
The event ended with an inspection tour of the Akko PHC by the deputy governor and other dignitaries.