The Kogi State Ministry of Health recently convened an emergency preparedness meeting to evaluate the state’s readiness to respond to cholera outbreaks and other health emergencies. During the event, Dr. Abdulazeez Adams Adeiza, the Kogi State Commissioner for Health, emphasized the administration of His Excellency, Alhaji Usman Ododo’s commitment to ensuring timely and effective responses to disease outbreaks.
Dr. Abdulazeez highlighted the collaborative efforts with relevant agencies, partners, and organizations in addressing health crises, stating, “We will continue to enhance our surveillance systems to detect potential health threats at the earliest possible stage.” He underscored the critical importance of preparedness in safeguarding the health of citizens, asserting, “We cannot afford to be caught off guard when it comes to health emergencies. A proactive approach is essential to ensure the health and safety of our community.”
Dr. Muazu Musa Omeiza, the Executive Director of the Kogi State Primary Health Care Development Agency, praised the collaborative efforts of stakeholders in preparing for potential cholera outbreaks in the state. “We are pleased to participate in this important meeting and appreciate the recognition of our role as a key stakeholder in public health matters,” he stated. “As an agency, we have a significant responsibility in responding to outbreaks like cholera, and we are dedicated to fulfilling our mandate to the highest standard.”
The meeting underscored the collective commitment of Kogi State’s health authorities to enhance preparedness and response strategies, ensuring the well-being of all citizens in the face of health emergencies
The State Epidemiologist, Dr. Austin Ojotule, provided an update on the recent outbreak of cholera in Omala Local Government Area, which has resulted in 16 reported cases, with case fatality rate of 18.75%. “The high case fatality rate is attributed to home management as all deaths occurred among those who did not present at health facility for treatment. He also emphasized the need for improved access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene practices. We are working to strengthen our primary healthcare system and enhance surveillance and response capabilities to mitigate the impact of possible cholera outbreaks.”
The Director of Public Health, Dr. Francis Akpa, underscored the importance of effective coordination and funding in responding to cholera outbreaks. “We need proper coordination and communication to ensure effective response to health emergencies. We also need domestic resource mobilization and accountability in public health funding to support our efforts.”
Dr. Ahmed Attah of the World Health Organization (WHO) commended Kogi State for its progress in polio surveillance efforts. “Kogi State has made significant progress in polio surveillance efforts, with all Local Government Areas (LGAs) achieving key performance indicators. The state’s Acute Flaccid Paralysis (AFP) surveillance performance is measured using two core indicators: non-polio AFP rate and stool adequacy. The state has achieved the target of 3 non-polio AFP cases per 100,000 population, with all LGAs meeting the target.”
Dr.Attah further emphasized the importance of sustaining the gains made in polio surveillance. “We need to ensure that the progress made in polio surveillance is sustained and leveraged to support other public health programs. This will require continued support and commitment from all stakeholders, including the state government, WHO, and other partners.”
The state has received response commodities from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to support its efforts, and the ministry will continue to strengthen its surveillance system to detect any health threats early. With the collective efforts of all stakeholders, Kogi State is poised to effectively respond to health emergencies and ensure the health and safety of its citizens.
Dorothy Onoja
PRO
Ministry of Health
