By: Mukhtar Yahaya Shehu
Kano state government has reiterated its commitment to improve the health sector especially children under five and Vulnerable people across the state.
The state commissioner for health Dr Abubakar Labaran Yusuf stated this during the flag off of Round III of the Safe Antimicrobial Resistance of Mass Administration of Azithromycin in Children in Nigeria SARMAAN II Across 36 local government areas of the state.
He said the event is not merely the commencement of another public health campaign; it is a renewed declaration of present administration collective commitment to safeguarding the lives of our children, strengthening our health system, and securing a healthier future for generations yet unborn.
The commissioner on behalf of the Kano State Government under Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, wishes to reaffirm the unwavering commitment of this administration on investing in interventions that improve maternal and child health, strengthening Primary Health Care, and accelerate our journey towards Universal Health Coverage.
“We firmly believe that every child deserves an equal opportunity to survive, grow, and achieve his or her full potential.4. Children remain the greatest asset of every nation. Although remarkable progress has been recorded in reducing childhood illnesses, preventable diseases continue to threaten the lives of many children. This reality demands sustained, evidence-based interventions.” The commissioner said.
According to the commissioner the SARMAAN II Project is a collaborative initiative of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the Nigeria Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), Sightsavers, SOLINA, HANDS and other distinguished partners. Beyond administering Azithromycin to eligible children aged 1–59 months. Adding that the project also generates scientific evidence on antimicrobial resistance that will shape future national and global health policies.
“It is worthy to note that, Kano State is privileged to once again be selected for this intervention, reflecting the confidence reposed in our health system and the commitment of this administration to delivering impactful public health programmes, during this third round, the intervention will cover 36 Local Government Areas, targeting approximately 2,955,042 eligible children,” Dr Labaran added.
The commissioner pointed out that, to support implementation, approximately 736,731 bottles of Azithromycin have been made available to Kano State to support this intervention.Additionally:• Over 12,000 personnel will participate in service delivery.• 51 supervisors will oversee implementation.• 28,498 settlements in 396 wards across 36 LGAs will be covered. No drug, no matter how effective, can achieve its purpose without the trust and participation of the people,” He said.
Dr. Abubakar Labaran Yusuf called upon traditional rulers, religious leaders, Local Government authorities, Ward Development Committees, community volunteers, civil society organisations and all stakeholders to mobilise communities and encourage parents to participate fully.
“To all parents and caregivers, I urge you to present every eligible child aged 1–59 months during the campaign. The medicine is safe, quality assured, administered by trained personnel and provided completely free of charge. The commissioner urged.
He further said kano state government remain steadfast in the commitment to strengthening Primary Health Care, improving child survival and advancing Universal Health Coverage.
“We envision a Kano where no child dies from preventable causes and every family has access to quality healthcare. Permit me to sincerely appreciate the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, NPHCDA, NIMR, Sightsavers, SOLINA, HANDS and all implementing partners for their invaluable technical and financial support.” we are confident that Round 3 of the SARMAAN II Project will achieve its objectives, protect millions of children and further position Kano State as a leader in innovative public health programming. The commissioner said.
