The Jigawa State Maternal, Newborn and Child Health Accountability Forum, JiMAF, has called for an immediate investigation into the feeding conditions of in-patients in health facilities across the state, raising concerns over inadequate nutrition for hospitalized patients.
JiMAF’s Acting Co-Chair, Isah Mustapha, disclosed this in a statement issued to Media Talk Africa on the hospital feeding findings.
According to him, “A recent investigation by JiMAF revealed that 12 primary health centers, including two cottage hospitals, do not provide food for in-patients, forcing them to fend for themselves.”
“Findings also show that in facilities where food is available, about 80% of the meals served were found to be of poor quality and insufficient quantity.”
The report also highlighted that some contractors failed to supply the required food, while kitchens in several facilities remained closed for extended periods.
Mr. Mustapha urged the government to include the 12 affected health centers in its feeding program and to hold contractors accountable for fulfilling their contractual obligations.
He further recommended the establishment of an independent agency to oversee project and service delivery in the health sector.
He therefore called on the Jigawa State Ministry of Health to enhance its monitoring and supervisory mechanisms to ensure that patients receive proper meals.
