Gombe tops Gavi-PHC MoU implementation, unveils sustainability plan
Gombe State has been recognized as Nigeria’s top-performing state in implementing the Gavi-Primary Healthcare (PHC) Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and strengthening its overall healthcare system.
At an event attended by key stakeholders and partners, the state formally assumed control of healthcare activities previously managed under the Gavi-PHC MoU and unveiled a comprehensive sustainability plan for continued implementation of the program’s life-changing interventions.
Dr. Tushar Rane, Chief of UNICEF’s Bauchi Field Office, commended Gombe’s progress, particularly in maternal and child healthcare service delivery.
She praised the state’s leadership under Governor Inuwa Yahaya, highlighting timely fund releases, the establishment of a high-level task force led by the Deputy Governor, and a N500 million commitment to the program.
“Another remarkable milestone is the recruitment of 440 healthcare workers who have been fully absorbed into the state healthcare system, further strengthening service delivery,” Dr. Rane stated.
She also acknowledged a 170% improvement in routine immunization coverage and a significant increase in skilled birth attendants.
In their goodwill messages, Hajiya Faiza Galadanci from the Nigerian Governors’ Forum and Dr. Umar Faruk, the World Health Organization’s Gombe State Coordinator, attributed the success of the MoU to Governor Yahaya’s dedication and support. They noted improvements in routine immunization and healthcare infrastructure under the initiative.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to prioritizing healthcare.
He highlighted major achievements, including the revitalization of 114 primary healthcare facilities, the reconstruction of Kumo General Hospital, and upgrades to the State Specialist Hospital in Gombe.
“We have also enrolled 154,394 beneficiaries into the Go-Health Contributory Healthcare Scheme to improve access to healthcare services,” Governor Yahaya said, emphasizing progress in immunization, antenatal care, and hospital deliveries, as reflected in the 2024 Nigerian Demographic and Health Survey.
The Commissioner for Health, Hon. Habu Dahiru, detailed the state’s investments under the MoU and noted the event’s purpose was to showcase achievements, identify areas for improvement, and plan for continued progress in healthcare delivery.
Dr. Abdulrahman Shu’aibu, Executive Secretary of the Gombe State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, explained the sustainability plan, noting that Gombe had integrated the Gavi-PHC MoU’s activities into its PHC Annual Operational Plan.
He reported significant improvements, including increased immunization coverage from 18% to 50% and improved child spacing from 16% to 30%.
Traditional rulers, represented by HRH Malam Danladi Sanusi Maiyamba, also lauded the governor’s leadership and support for involving local leaders in implementing the MoU.
The event concluded with awards presented to partners—including Gavi, UNICEF, WHO, and the Nigerian Governors’ Forum—for their support. Individual awards were given to Dr. Jibrin Umar Mohammed and Vivian Alibo for their contributions to the program. A quarterly newsletter showcasing the PHC program’s successes and activities was also launched.
