The Kebbi State government set to collaborate with Integrated Health Project, IHP, to establish Special Baby Care Units in some selected primary and secondary healthcare centers across the state.
This was contained in a press release signed and made available to SMARTS NEWS by the Press secretary, Deputy Governor’s office, Kebbi State, Murtala M. Gotomo.
Gotomo said the State Deputy Governor, Senator Umar Abubakar stated this when he received a team from Integrated Health Project IHP led by Permanent Secretary Ministry of Health, Dr. Shehu Nuhu Koko said the development will no doubt improve healthcare delivery system in the state.
Senator Umar Abubakar assured of the state government’s commitment to expand the program to all the 225 Primary health care centers and secondary facilities to bring healthcare services closer to the people.
The Permanent Secretary Ministry of Health, Dr. Shehu Nuhu Koko informed the Deputy Governor that the program will run as a pilot project in six out of twelve selected centers.
He said one unit will be selected from each of the benefiting local government areas which, according to him, will be located at the General Hospital.
He added that a Special Baby Care unit would also be established in 225 Primary Healthcare centres across the state with a view to reducing infant mortality. The units are to serve as referral centers only.
The Permanent Secretary explained that IHP was an implementing partner supported by USAID that has been supporting the state Ministry of Health towards strengthening the health care delivery system, especially at primary healthcare level since 2019.
He highlighted IHP’s areas of support to include maternal health, nutrition, family planning and Malaria aimed at reducing maternal mortality rate in the state.
Dr. Koko indicated that IHP will provide each unit with a dedicated toll free line that aids communication with stipulated centers for quick referrals.
