Jigawa State Government has earned high praise from the House of Representatives’ Committee on Health Care Services for its investments and reforms in healthcare.
This was stated when the committee, led by its chairman, Amos Magaji, paid a courtesy visit to Governor Umar Namadi at the Government House, Dutse, the Jigawa State capital, on Wednesday as part of its official oversight tour.
Speaking during the visit, Magaji expressed satisfaction with the state’s commitment, revealing that over 15% of Jigawa’s annual budget is allocated to health.
“The 15% in the budget has been going around and effectively changing the landscape of health in Jigawa State,” he said.
He also congratulated Namadi for winning the $500,000 PSC Leadership Challenge Award, recognising it as a testament to Jigawa’s growing reputation in healthcare reform.
“This shows your commitment. This shows the height you have reached and what you have done in the health sector,” Magaji noted.
The committee chairman also commended Jigawa’s decision to harmonise health workers’ salaries with federal scales, a move aimed at reducing brain drain among medical professionals.
“In many parts of the country, there is what they call Japa syndrome, but here in Jigawa, people will be moving from other states to enjoy this benefit,” he stated.
In his remark, the governor thanked the committee for acknowledging the state’s progress and reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to transforming healthcare.
“We believe that a healthy society is a progressive society. Health is the foundation for education and economic growth,” he said.
The governor explained that a baseline survey conducted after taking office helped prioritise healthcare and other sectors, with a strong focus on strengthening primary healthcare services.
“Primary health care must be strengthened if you want to provide health to your people,” he emphasised, adding the need to make primary health centres pleasant for both workers and citizens.
Namadi also highlighted ongoing initiatives such as establishing a medical village featuring a diagnostic centre, cardiac centre, and oxygen plant to reduce medical tourism and improve local access.
He reassured the committee of his commitment to deepen reforms and achieve universal health coverage in Jigawa State.
“This visit has made us stronger and will keep us on track to do what is expected of us. We are partners in progress and ready to work with you,” Namadi affirmed.
He further stated that the visit underscored Jigawa’s growing leadership role in healthcare development, showcasing a model of commitment that other states can emulate.
