Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has disbursed over N209.8 million to about 170 primary healthcare centres across the 27 local government areas of the state.
In a ceremony held on Monday at the multi-purpose hall of the Government House in Maiduguri, Zulum symbolically presented cheques to selected health facilities from each of the three senatorial zones.
The governor, however, charged all facility managers and coordinators of the local government primary healthcare centres to be dedicated to their responsibilities by ensuring quality services to the people.
“Healthcare is a shared responsibility. As we invest in our healthcare infrastructure, I call upon our health workers, community leaders, and all stakeholders to collaborate in maximizing the impact of these funds,” Zulum said.
The governor also announced a plan to rehabilitate all the primary healthcare centres across the 27 local government areas of Borno State.
Earlier in his address, the State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Prof. Baba M Gana, noted that the disbursement was part of the Zulum’s commitment to ensuring quality health care to the citizens of Borno.
He said:“ This occasion marks an important milestone in our collective efforts to ensure that every person in our state has access to quality healthcare services. His Excellency has graciously approved the fund amounting to N209,819,306 only for the two BHCPF gateways (BOSPHCDB & BOSCHMA).
“This is a testament to our determination to improve the healthcare system in Borno State. These resources will go a long way in enhancing our primary and secondary healthcare facilities, enabling us to provide essential services that cater to the needs of our communities,” he said.
Orders LG chairs take charge of primary healthcare
Meanwhile, Governor Zulum has directed the 27 local government chairpersons to manage the primary healthcare centres in their domains and ensure optimal services.
He said, “Henceforth, all the local government chairpersons should take charge of the primary healthcare facilities in their domains. Where gaps exist, I want to assure you that we will complement each other to ensure our people receive the best care.”
Governor Zulum also directed the State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (BOSPHCDB) and the Borno State Contributory Health Management Agency (BOSCHMA) to declare with the local government chairpersons all amounts allocated to the PHCs in their respective LGAs.