In a significant move towards achieving the Abuja Declaration, Governor Hon Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State has proudly announced the allocation of 15% of the total 2024 budget to the healthcare sector. This proclamation was made during a comprehensive one-day engagement meeting on Primary Health Care Services at the WAWA Hall, Government House, Damaturu, involving the Governor, Emirs, and key stakeholders.
Governor Buni emphasized the strategic importance of this allocation, aiming to expedite the realization of universal health coverage. He highlighted the pivotal role a healthy population plays in enhancing productivity and fostering wealth creation within the state.
Underlining the commitment of his administration, Governor Buni revealed a substantial financial investment in Primary Health Care, acknowledging its role as the gateway to grassroots healthcare services. Additionally, he highlighted the provision of essential facilities in secondary and tertiary health facilities to enhance overall healthcare outcomes in the state.
Expressing his satisfaction, Governor Buni stated, “It is heartwarming that we have, this year, met the Abuja Declaration of allocating 15 per cent of the total budget to our health sector. We are optimistic that this will promote healthcare delivery in the state.”
Furthermore, the governor outlined the establishment of key agencies, including the Yobe State Contributor Health Management Agency and Yobe State Drugs and Consumable Management Agency, designed to address healthcare financing and ensure the provision of high-quality drugs and medical consumables to the people.
Governor Buni also highlighted the government’s commitment to human capital development, aligning with the health development policy. Notably, the establishment and equipping of a modern maternity and child care complex aim to combat maternal and child morbidity effectively.
In an impressive stride, eight Primary Health Care Centers (PHCCs) have been upgraded to General Hospitals, and four General Hospitals have been transformed into Specialist Hospitals. The state Teaching Hospital has also undergone a comprehensive upgrade with state-of-the-art facilities, attracting patients from both near and far for medical tourism and ensuring the delivery of superior healthcare services to the people of Yobe State.
