Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq has reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to enhancing primary health care delivery for the residents of the state. This commitment will be realized through a new intervention program called the Immunization Plus and Malaria Process by Accelerating and Transparency (IMPACT), which is funded by the World Bank following the state’s contribution of $100,000 in counterpart funds. Each participating primary health care center (PHC) will receive N4.6 million to upgrade its infrastructure. During the official launch of the program in Ilorin, the governor emphasized that this initiative aims to improve access to primary health care services, reflecting his administration’s goal of achieving universal health coverage for all Kwarans.
In his remarks, Governor AbdulRazaq welcomed attendees to the event, describing it as a significant milestone for his administration. He stated, “One of the cardinal goals of our administration is to ensure universal health coverage for all Kwarans, irrespective of their location.” This principle has guided the strategic interventions made in the health sector. According to a statement by Rafiu Ajakaye, the governor highlighted that one of the early commitments of his administration was to express interest in the IMPACT Project by fulfilling all necessary requirements, including the payment of the counterpart fund. The initiative aims to provide primary health care centers with a degree of financial autonomy, enabling them to deliver essential health services effectively.
The governor noted that this program continues the legacy of his administration, which has consistently invested in the health sector. This includes renovating or constructing health facilities across the state and recruiting health workers at all levels. He mentioned that many health facilities have been equipped with resources previously unavailable in the state, and he assured that the administration would not relent in its efforts, especially given the impressive results achieved so far.
Dr. Nusirat Elelu, the Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, also spoke about the administration’s efforts to reposition the health sector. She highlighted prompt payments of counterpart funds, significant investments in basic infrastructure, and timely salary payments and promotions for health workers as key factors that have elevated the state’s standing in health matters. Dr. Elelu pledged that the agency would ensure that the resources entrusted to it are utilized effectively for the benefit of the community and in accordance with the relevant guidelines.
Development partners have praised the governor’s initiatives in the health sector, recognizing them as a testament to his commitment to public welfare. Dr. Walter Mulombo, a representative of the World Health Organization (WHO), commended the administration for its strategic partnerships and investments in primary health care programs aimed at delivering quality health services to citizens. Speaking through Dr. Asma’l Kabir, the North Central Coordinator for WHO, Mulombo noted that Kwara’s implementation of the program is a result of the governor’s foresight and dedication. He expressed appreciation for the establishment of the IMPACT project, which is designed to enhance access to universal health coverage.
Dr. Mulombo further elaborated on WHO’s 2023 goals, which aim to reach at least 3 billion people worldwide. He stated that the first goal is to provide 1 billion individuals with access to universal health coverage, aligning with the efforts of the Kwara State Government. Additionally, another billion people are expected to become healthier, while a further billion will be protected from health emergencies. This alignment underscores the significant progress being made by the Kwara State Government in the health sector.
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