The Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, has assured Nigerians that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is fully aware of the current economic challenges citizens are facing and is working diligently to alleviate their suffering.
Speaking during the quarterly review meeting of the Traditional Leaders’ Committee on Primary Healthcare Delivery for the 19 northern states, held at the Bauchi State Government House, Prof. Pate emphasized the President’s commitment to improving citizens’ living conditions.
“President Tinubu understands the difficulties Nigerians are going through. He is deeply concerned and is working tirelessly to ease the hardship. His focus is on ensuring a better quality of life for the people,” Pate said.
Acknowledging the tough impact of recent economic reforms, the Minister noted that these changes are necessary for long-term benefits, urging Nigerians to remain patient.
“There is light at the end of the tunnel. After hardship comes relief,” he added.
Prof. Pate highlighted federal government efforts in key sectors, revealing that 8,800 primary healthcare centers are now receiving regular funding through the Basic Health Care Provision Fund, while 4,000 centers are undergoing revitalization nationwide.
“This progress requires collaboration. The President cannot achieve it alone,” Pate stressed, calling on state and local governments, as well as traditional leaders, to join hands in driving development.
Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, praised the federal government’s efforts and pledged his administration’s continued support for healthcare development. He reaffirmed Bauchi State’s adherence to the Abuja Declaration, dedicating 15% of its budget to the health sector.
Through the efforts of traditional and religious leaders, over 300 primary healthcare centers have been established across Bauchi State. Represented by the Secretary to the Government of Bauchi State, Barrister Ibrahim Mohammed Kashim, the governor commended the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, for mobilizing traditional rulers to create health awareness at the grassroots level.
“We are grateful for the contributions of our traditional leaders in raising awareness and bringing healthcare closer to the people,” the governor said.
Cristian Munduate, UNICEF’s Country Representative in Nigeria, commended traditional rulers from the northern states for their instrumental role in eradicating wild poliovirus and addressing outbreaks. Represented by Shamina Sharmin, Munduate acknowledged their efforts in promoting routine immunization and primary healthcare, especially among vulnerable groups like women and children.
“Combating polio and ensuring strong healthcare systems require collaboration between governments, international organizations, and local communities,” she said, urging traditional leaders to intensify efforts in routine immunization and healthcare awareness.
Munduate reaffirmed UNICEF’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s health initiatives, stating,
“UNICEF will continue working with the Ministry of Health, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, and other partners to ensure every child gets vaccinated, moving us closer to a polio-free Nigeria.”
The meeting concluded with calls for collective action, patience, and unity as Nigerians navigate ongoing reforms and work toward long-term national development.
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