By Muhammad Jamil Abubakar
Gombe State Government, in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has handed over selected Primary Health Care (PHC) facilities to contractors to commence revitalisation works across the state.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Habu Dahiru, said the initiative is part of the government’s commitment to strengthening primary healthcare, describing PHCs as the first point of contact for patients in communities.
Dr. Dahiru explained that the state government has prioritised the revitalisation of PHC facilities to meet national Level Two standards, which include improved physical structures, staff quarters, reliable water supply, solar-powered electricity and proper landscaping to create a conducive environment for healthcare delivery.
He disclosed that UNICEF is supporting the revitalisation of PHC facilities in three local government areas—Akko, Dukku and Kwami. According to him, contractors have been fully mobilised to site and given a three-month timeline to complete the projects.
The commissioner said the upgraded facilities are expected to significantly improve maternal and child healthcare services, as well as other medical services. He noted that special attention will be given to labour rooms to ensure adequate space for first and second stages of labour, as well as improved pharmacies and laboratories.
Dr. Dahiru urged benefiting communities to cooperate with contractors to ensure timely completion of the projects and to take ownership of the facilities for sustainable use.
In her remarks, the Chief of UNICEF Bauchi Field Office, Dr. Nuzhat Rafique, said the handover marked the commencement of revitalisation projects supported by the Global Fund, aimed at strengthening primary healthcare systems. She said UNICEF’s goal is to save the lives of mothers and children through improved access to quality healthcare.
Dr. Rafique noted that upgraded health facilities with access to water, sanitation and functional service areas will encourage greater utilisation by community members. She commended the Gombe State Government for its strong leadership and commitment, describing the partnership as a shared responsibility. She added that UNICEF will monitor the projects to ensure quality delivery.
Speaking on behalf of Akko, Dukku and Kwami local government areas, Abubakar Hassan thanked the Gombe State Ministry of Health and UNICEF for selecting the councils for the revitalisation exercise. He assured the state government and contractors of the full cooperation and support of the local governments to ensure the successful completion of the projects.
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