Mairo Adamu Mani
The Niger State House of Assembly Standing Committee on Health, Nutrition, and Primary Healthcare has continued its interface with Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) and healthcare institutions in the state, Led by Chairman Hon. Pharm. Umar Nasir, the committee assessed healthcare facilities in Suleja, Tungan Yakubu, Sabon Wuse, General Hospital Kaffin Koro, and Kuta.
The interface is part of the committee’s oversight responsibilities aimed at strengthening the state’s healthcare system. Hon. Pharm. Umar Nasir emphasized the committee’s commitment to ensuring quality healthcare delivery in Niger State, highlighting the importance of identifying areas of improvement and collaborating with healthcare facilities to enhance service delivery.
The committee reviewed key documents, including:
– Laboratory and pharmacy records
– Financial statements
– NHIS reports
– Other relevant documents covering October 2024 to March 2025.
Dr. Adedokun Adebayo, Medical Director of General Hospital Suleja and Chairman of Medical Directors in Niger State, commended the initiative and highlighted numerous challenges facing healthcare facilities, including:
– Lack of operational funds (imprest) for over 10 years, hindering facilities’ ability to function effectively
– Fuel shortages for over 8 years, affecting generator power and overall service delivery.
– Insufficient medical equipment, compromising patient care and treatment outcomes.
– Lack of security, posing risks to patients, staff, and facilities.
– Staffing shortages, particularly doctors and specialized healthcare professionals.
– Inadequate infrastructure and facilities, affecting patient comfort and care.
– Limited access to essential medicines and supplies.
Dr. Adebayo however urged the Niger State Government to:
– Ensure proper funding of healthcare facilities to address operational challenges
– Involve health administrators in decision-making to improve healthcare delivery
– Address staffing shortages, especially doctors and specialized healthcare professionals
– Grant autonomy to hospitals to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.