By Murtala Muhammad
Bauchi State has included Multiple Micronutrient Supplements (MMS) to its Essential Medicines List, following advocacy by Alive & Thrive, a project funded by the Gates Foundation and implemented by FHI360.
The appeal for MMS inclusion was made by the State Team Lead of Alive & Thrive, Mr. Chidi Asimobi, during a two-day workshop in Bauchi, which focused on reviewing the Essential Medicines List for both adults and children in the state.
Mr. Asimobi stated that MMS has shown proven benefits in enhancing maternal health and improving pregnancy outcomes, particularly among vulnerable populations.
He noted that MMS contains key nutrients, including iron and folic acid, which are essential in preventing malnutrition and anaemia among women and children.
In an interview, the Medical Director of Drug and Medical Consumables Management Agency, Abdulkadir Ahmed said inclusion of Multiple Micronutrient Supplements and other essential drugs was apt in view of their impact on maternal and child health.
In his remarks, the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Sani Mohammed who appreciated Alive & Thrive for its support in strengthening healthcare delivery, commended the initiative, noting that it aligned with the state’s healthcare priorities.
Our health correspondent reports that the workshop which was organised by the State Ministry for Health’s Drugs and Consumables Management Agency, DMMA with support from Alive & Thrive, gathered professionals from primary, secondary and tertiary health facilities as well as agencies
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