As part of efforts to reposition the state’s health sector, Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda has revealed that the state government invested three billion, seven hundred and seventy-seven million naira (N3.77 billion) in the state’s healthcare system from June 2023 to April 2024.
Governor Radda made the disclosure in his address during the official commissioning of a new sickle cell centre and the distribution of free sickle cell and malaria drugs at Katsina General Hospital on Monday.
The event was organised by the Governor’s wife’s NGO, “Safe Space Humanitarian Initiative (SASHIN).”
Governor Radda clarified that part of the funds was allocated to foreign scholarships for medical students from Katsina State and those on residency programmes.
He added that part of the fund was used for the upgrade of 102 primary healthcare centres (PHCs) in the state and plans are underway to upgrade 34 more to general hospitals by the end of the year.
He explained that one hundred and twelve million naira (N112,000,000) was used to provide allowances for 542 medical students studying both within Nigeria and abroad. The Governor emphasized that healthcare funding had been increased by a substantial eight hundred percent.
Malam Radda reminded couples planning marriage to undergo medical tests to prevent the birth of children with sickle cell. He commended the first lady’s initiative of providing free medication to children living with sickle cell and malaria. This he said would significantly enhance the state government’s efforts to improve healthcare access for citizens.
Earlier, Hajia Zulaihat Dikko Radda, the initiator of SASHIN and wife of the Katsina State Governor, stated that the centre would not only distribute drugs regularly but also ensure prompt healthcare delivery in the state.
She added that her NGO had registered nine thousand children and women living with sickle cell in the state and planned to enroll more in the program across the three senatorial zones.
Alhaji Musa Adamu Funtua, the state commissioner of health, emphasised that the health sector is a top priority area for the Dikko Radda-led administration. He noted that the establishment of the sickle cell centre is a clear demonstration of the Governor’s commitment to supporting those living with the disease.
On behalf of the Emir of Katsina, Alhaji Lawal Idris Bagiwa, the Sarkin Fulani Hamsheta expressed gratitude to the state governor for his efforts to improve the lives of the common people through various initiatives.