Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Biola Azeez
Published on 2024-02-24 08:16:18
The Kwara State government has been recognized by UNICEF as the winner of the immunisation coverage award in the North Central zone, earning a cash prize of $500,000. This achievement was announced at a meeting of the taskforce on Immunisation and Primary Healthcare Agency in Ilorin, where the state deputy governor and chairman, Mr. Kayode Alabi, expressed the government’s commitment to reaching the highest levels of success in immunisation coverage nationwide.
Mr. Alabi credited Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq for his support in achieving this award and stated that the money received would be managed by UNICEF to enhance the primary healthcare system in the state. He commended the governor for releasing counterpart funds promptly for upcoming immunisation campaigns, demonstrating his dedication to the health of the people of Kwara State.
Dr. Nusirat Elelu, the executive secretary of the Kwara State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, outlined the plans put in place by Governor Abdulrazaq to improve the PHC system with the awarded funds. These plans include renovating PHC facilities, providing training in emergency and newborn care for midwives, and strengthening data collection through the distribution of laptops to programme officers.
It was reported that Kwara State has seen significant improvements in routine immunisation, with a 66% increase in the number of children receiving vaccines at PHCs compared to previous years. Moreover, the state is set to participate in the second phase of human Papillomavirus vaccine introduction for children aged 8-14, starting in May 2024. This vaccine is crucial in preventing cervical cancer, the second most deadly form of cancer globally.
Dr. Emmanuel Eyitayo, representing the World Health Organization, praised Governor Abdulrazaq for his unwavering commitment to healthcare provision and expressed optimism for further advancements in the state’s health sector under the leadership of the taskforce on Immunisation and Primary Healthcare Agency.
In conclusion, the accolade received by the Kwara State government for its outstanding immunisation coverage achievements reflects the dedication and hard work of all those involved in improving healthcare services in the state. With continued support and commitment, Kwara State is poised to achieve even greater success in the field of public health.
Read the original article on Nigerian Tribune
