In a bid to enhance immunization programs across Kano State, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has inaugurated a 25-member State Taskforce on Immunization.
Governor Yusuf emphasized that the taskforce members were selected based on their proven track records and technical expertise, with the goal of making a significant positive impact on immunization efforts in the state. “Their responsibilities include providing leadership and support for the implementation of all immunization activities, as well as supporting other primary healthcare services,” the governor stated.
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He also noted that the taskforce will be responsible for reviewing and adopting the state’s annual immunization work plan, ensuring that it aligns with the State Health Annual Operation Plan (AOP). “Other key duties include conducting quarterly reviews of the immunization work plan, advocating for timely and adequate resource allocation, ensuring the judicious use of funds, and monitoring progress in Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child, and Adolescent Health plus Nutrition (RMNCAAH+N) indices,” Yusuf added.
The taskforce will also monitor the progress of routine immunization delivery to ensure all eligible children are reached. Quarterly updates will be provided to the State Executive Council on their progress.
Governor Yusuf expressed his expectation that the taskforce would provide the necessary oversight, political, and technical support to ensure the complete eradication of vaccine-preventable diseases in Kano State.
The taskforce will be chaired by the State Deputy Governor, Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, who also serves as the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. The Commissioner of Health, Dr. Abubakar Labaran Yusuf, will act as co-chair.
In addition to the taskforce’s inauguration, Governor Yusuf directed the completion of the abandoned phase II renovation project at Nuhu Bamalli Maternity Hospital in Kano, which includes additional wards and staff offices. He instructed the State Ministry of Health to furnish the facility immediately to ensure that healthcare services can resume without delay.
In another development, Governor Yusuf has taken steps to regulate the practice of traditional medicine in Kano by screening and certifying over 5,000 vendors from 28 local government areas. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving healthcare delivery and stressed the importance of collaboration between traditional and modern medical practices.
The National President of the Traditional Medicine Association, Alhaji Shaba Maikudi, praised Governor Yusuf for his support and dedication to the sector. Maikudi also called on the governor to establish a Traditional Medicine Board to further integrate traditional practices into the state’s healthcare system.
These developments were detailed in a press statement by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Bature.
