The Inspiring project Save the Children has urged the Jigawa state government to speed up the process of implementing the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund in the State.
The Chief of party, Inspiring project, Dr Isah Adamu stated this at the launch of public dissemination of National Integrated Pneumonia Control strategy and implementation plan held at Dutse, the Jigawa state capital.
Dr Isah Adamu also called on the state government to ensure equitable access to healthcare, especially for children and families at the local level to reduce, out-of-pocket expenditures.
According to him, Save the Children and partners remain committed to continued collaboration with the state government and contribute towards an accelerated reduction in child deaths.
Also speaking, the Acting Country Director, Save the Children International Nigeria, Mr Amaneul Mamo pointed out that like many other diseases, pneumonia is fueled by socio-economic barriers and inequities that put children from low-income families at risk of pneumonia deaths.
He further explained that although pneumonia is preventable and treatable, Nigeria’s weakened health system, particularly at the primary healthcare level means that more children will not have access to timely care.
Mr Mamo added that, the National Integrated Pneumonia Control Strategy delivers tangible priorities and recommendations, as well as coordination and accountability mechanisms to strengthen pneumonia control in a manner that is integrated into existing child health policies and strategies in Nigeria.
Radio Nigeria reports that the dissemination event was attended by stakeholders at the national and state levels.
Usman Mohammed Zaria