Writing By Ali Muhammad Rabiu; Editing By Godwin Duru
Kwara State Government has reiterated its renewed commitment towards collective action to deliver universal health coverage to the people of the state
The state Commissioner for Health, Dr Amina Ahmed El- Imam, stated this at a news conference organised by the Ministry in collaboration with World Health Organization (WHO), to mark 2026 World Health Day held at the Ministry’s Headquarters in Ilorin.
Dr. El – Imam described the 2026 celebration as a significant moment to reflect on progress and strengthen collaboration towards improving public health.
The Commissioner attributed the progress in the health sector to government consistent investment and collaboration with development partners.
She cited findings from the 2023 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey, which showed that the state recorded the lowest under-five mortality rate of 14 deaths per 1,000 live births, high immunization coverage, and increased utilization of maternal health services.
The Commissioner, however, described the upgrading of the General Hospital Ilorin into a Teaching Hospital as a milestone that would enhance healthcare service delivery, workforce development, and research capacity
She called on residents of the state to adopt healthy lifestyles and support government initiatives, while urging health workers to remain committed to delivering quality care.
In a remark, the Regional Director of the World Health Organization (WHO), for Africa, Dr. Mohamed Janabi, called on African governments to increase investment in science, research and innovation as a critical pathway to achieving health security and sustainable development across the continent.
The Regional Director who spoke through the state Coordinator of the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr.Emmanuel Eyitayo, emphasized the importance of science in improving health outcomes and addressing emerging health challenges.
He noted that Africa had made significant strides in public health through scientific advancement, citing the rapid development and deployment of Ebola vaccines in West and Central Africa, as well as genomic surveillance efforts in South Africa that enabled early detection of COVID-19 variants.
ALI MUHAMMAD RABIU
