The Kogi State Primary Health Care Development Agency, in partnership with the State Ministry of Health and Partners, recently organized an event to enhance the healthcare system in the state. The primary objective of this event was to elevate immunization coverage, improve maternal and child nutrition, and enhance overall healthcare services by equipping selected healthcare facilities with Solar Direct Drive (SDD) Refrigerators and cooking utensils. This initiative is expected to significantly contribute to a healthier Kogi State.
The official launch of the distribution of Solar Direct Drive Refrigerators and Cooking Utensils to primary healthcare facilities throughout Kogi State commenced today at the State Medical Store Premises, NPI, Zone 8 in Lokoja. The ceremony was presided over by Dr. Abdullazeez Adams Adeiza, the Honourable Commissioner for Health.
During his address to the audience, Dr. Muazu Omeiza Musa, the Executive Director of the Kogi State Primary Health Care Development Agency, elaborated on the purpose of the initiative. He emphasized that the primary goal is to enhance Routine Immunization, ensure equitable access to life-saving vaccines, and promote Maternal, Infant, and Young Child Nutrition (MIYCN)
Dr. Mu’azu highlighted that the initiative targets remote areas with low immunization coverage and is possible through partnerships with organisations like the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency, African CDC, MasterCard Foundation, and UNICEF.
He emphasized that as a part the initiative, 246 Solar Direct Drive (SDD) refrigerators have been installed, with an additional 20 units being deployed and cooking utensils will also be distributed to 95 Primary Healthcare Centers to aid food demonstrations for pregnant women.
The Executive Director encouraged all stakeholders to ensure proper utilization and maintenance of the equipment, emphasizing the need to address gaps in vaccine storage and distribution to improve immunization outcomes, especially in underserved communities.
In a statement by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abdullazeez Adams Adeiza, he announced the distribution of Solar Direct Drive Refrigerators and cooking utensils to select healthcare facilities in Kogi State. This initiative shows the state’s commitment to protecting its citizens’ health, especially children and mothers, he noted.
Dr. Abdullazeez emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships in enhancing healthcare delivery in the state. He thanked partners for their support and recognized the initiative’s impact on improving immunization coverage, maternal and child nutrition.
The Commissioner also charged stakeholders to ensure that equipment is used effectively and maintained properly, promoting excellence in healthcare. He stressed the importance of regular maintenance and servicing to guarantee that healthcare facilities have the necessary resources and support.
Mrs. Deborah Odaudu, Director of Disease Control and Immunization, delivered a vote of thanks and outlined the necessary steps for managing the equipment in the chain room.
In their respective goodwill messages, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Mr. Folayan Idowu, State Coordinator of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), congratulated the Kogi State government on its achievement and pledged the NPHCDA’s full support for the state’s health sector.
Mr. Adeyeye Olumide of United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) thanked the State Ministry of Health and the State Primary Health Care Development Agency for launching the program, which he hopes will improve the lives of the state’s residents. He also emphasized UNICEF’s role in supporting this initiative.
The State Cold Chain Officer, Haj. Bilikisu Adagiri, thanked the Honourable Commissioner for Health for his contributions to maintaining the State’s Cold Chain equipment in good working condition and urged him to continue his support.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Dr. Ayo Olayemi, the CMD/CEO, Hospital Management Board, Perm.Sec. State Ministry of Health, Mrs. Dorcas Enehe Omeneke, Mr. Ogundusi Bolarinwa, the Director of Nutrition and PC ANRiN, Ex.Sec State Drug Management Agency, Pharm Salamatu Yunusa Onize. Also in attendance were directors from the State Ministry of Health and Kogi State Primary Health Care Development Agency, along with staff of the Agency.
This initiative is major step forward in strengthening Routine Immunization and ensuring all children have equal access to life-saving vaccines.
AWOKESON, RITA P.
~P.R.O
Kogi State Primary Health Care Dev. Agency
