Ekiti State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing healthcare systems and delivering quality outcomes for residents. The Commissioner for Health, Dr Oyebanji Filani, stated that this commitment would translate to sustained accessible and qualitative healthcare delivery at all public health facilities in the state.
The government has been proactive in addressing the healthcare needs of residents through various policies and programs, as well as providing necessary infrastructure and equipment at health facilities. This was disclosed by Filani, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Mrs Olusola Gbenga-Igotun, during an Immunisation Plus and Malaria Progress by Accelerating Coverage and Transforming Services (IMPACT) Project Transition event. The event marked the completion of Solina Health’s implementation contract in Ekiti State.
The IMPACT project, a World Bank-supported initiative, aims to reduce malaria burden by strengthening service delivery, improving access to quality diagnosis and treatment, and enhancing community engagement. Solina Health, in collaboration with Ekiti State, implemented the malaria component of the project. According to the Solina Health Director for IMPACT Project, Daniel Abraham, the organization has delivered on its assignment and exited upon completion of the contract. However, Abraham assured that Solina remains committed to partnering with Ekiti State and stakeholders moving forward.
Notable achievements of the project include supporting 203 health facilities, testing 958,022 individuals for malaria, saving 182,281 children under five through timely intervention, and protecting 92,853 pregnant women with preventive therapy. The project has also led to improved antenatal care attendance and facility-focused deliveries in targeted communities. The State Malaria Elimination Programme Manager, Dr Folu Ekundare, assured of sustainability, stating that the state implementation team had worked closely with Solina Health over the past two years.
Nigeria still bears one of the highest malaria burdens globally, making sustained efforts significant. The Ekiti State Government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare systems and delivering quality outcomes is crucial in reducing the malaria burden. The success of the IMPACT project demonstrates the importance of collaborative efforts between government agencies, healthcare organizations, and stakeholders in achieving significant progress in malaria control and healthcare delivery.