KATSINA: As part of efforts to reposition the state’s health sector, the Katsina State Government has between June 2023 to April 2024 invested three billion seven hundred and seventy-seven million naira in the state’s healthcare system .
Governor Radda disclosed this in his address at the official commissioning of a new sickle cell centre and distribution of free sickle cell and malaria drugs at Katsina General Hospital on Monday.
The event was organised by the Governor’s wife’s NGO, “Safe Space Humanitarian Initiative (SASHIN)” in commemoration of Sickle Cell Awareness Month.
Governor Radda explained that part of the funds was allocated to foreign scholarships for medical students from Katsina State and those on residency programmes.
He added that part of the fund was also used for the upgrade of 102 primary healthcare centres (PHCs) in the state, while plans are underway to upgrade 34 others to general hospitals by the end of the year.
He said one hundred and twelve million naira was used to provide allowances for 542 medical students studying both within Nigeria and abroad, emphasizing that healthcare funding had been increased by a substantial eight hundred percent.
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Radda urged couples planning marriage to undergo medical tests to prevent the birth of children with sickle cell and commended the first lady’s initiative of providing free medication to children living with sickle cell and malaria. This he said would significantly enhance the state government’s efforts to improve healthcare access for citizens.
Hajia Zulaihat Dikko Radda, the initiator of SASHIN and wife of the Katsina State Governor, earlier, stated that the centre would not only distribute drugs regularly but also ensure prompt healthcare delivery in the state.
She added that her NGO had registered nine thousand children and women living with sickle cell in the state and planned to enroll more in the programme across the three senatorial zones.
Alhaji Musa Adamu Funtua, the state commissioner of health, on his part, emphasised that the health sector is a top priority area for the Dikko Radda-led administration.
He noted that the establishment of the sickle cell centre is a clear demonstration of the Governor’s commitment to supporting those living with the disease.
Alhaji Abdulmumini Kabir Usman, the Emir of Katsina, represented by Alhaji Lawal Idris Bagiwa, the Sarkin Fulani Hamsheta, in his remarks, expressed gratitude to the state governor for his efforts to improve the lives of the common people through various initiatives.
