Jigawa Commended by House Committee for Exemplary Healthcare Reforms and Investment

The Jigawa State Government has been lauded by the House of Representatives Committee on Health Care Services for its significant investments and progressive reforms in the health sector.

The commendation came during an official oversight visit to Governor Umar Namadi in Dutse on Wednesday, led by the committee chairman, Hon. Amos Magaji. The visit formed part of the committee’s nationwide assessment tour of health initiatives and policies.

Expressing his satisfaction with Jigawa’s efforts, Magaji noted that the state has consistently allocated over 15% of its annual budget to the health sector — a move he said has had a transformative impact.

“The 15% budgetary commitment has been effectively reshaping the health landscape in Jigawa State,” Magaji remarked.

He also congratulated Governor Namadi on winning the $500,000 PSC Leadership Challenge Award, describing it as a clear endorsement of the state’s commitment to health sector transformation.

“This award is proof of your dedication and a reflection of the progress Jigawa has made in healthcare,” he said.

One notable reform that earned the committee’s praise was the harmonisation of health workers’ salaries in Jigawa with the federal pay scale — a strategic measure aimed at curbing brain drain.

“While other states battle with the ‘Japa syndrome,’ Jigawa is now becoming a destination for health professionals seeking better opportunities,” Magaji added.

In response, Governor Namadi thanked the committee for recognizing the state’s achievements and reiterated his administration’s resolve to continue driving reforms in the health sector.

“We strongly believe that a healthy population is the bedrock of education, productivity, and economic development,” the governor stated.

Namadi disclosed that a comprehensive baseline survey conducted at the start of his administration guided the prioritisation of health and other key sectors. He emphasized the centrality of primary healthcare, stressing the importance of making facilities attractive and functional for both workers and patients.

“Our vision is to make primary health centres centres of excellence that cater to the needs of our people,” he said.

The governor also outlined current health projects under development, including the creation of a “medical village” equipped with a diagnostic centre, cardiac facility, and oxygen plant, all aimed at reducing dependence on medical tourism and improving healthcare access within the state.

He assured the committee of his administration’s ongoing commitment to achieving universal health coverage in Jigawa.

“This visit has further motivated us. It reinforces our determination to stay on course. We see you as partners in progress and are fully open to collaboration,” Namadi concluded.

He added that the visit underscores Jigawa’s emerging leadership role in healthcare innovation, setting an example for other states across the country.