The Gombe State Ministry of Health has taken a bold step toward strengthening its health system by convening a four-day capacity development workshop aimed at producing a robust 2026 Annual Operational Plan (AOP).
The workshop, which brings together key health leaders, programme managers, and development partners, is being held in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health, the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSHRII), and the Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp) Coordination Office.
With the theme “Towards a Rational, Realistic, Pragmatic, and Comprehensive Plan to Inform Health Budgeting for the People of Gombe State,” the training focuses on aligning health planning with budget priorities to improve service delivery and health outcomes across the state.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Gombe State Commissioner for Health, Dr Habu Dahiru, explained that the workshop is designed to equip stakeholders with the skills and tools needed to develop a strategic roadmap for health activities in the coming year. He noted that the operational plan would not only guide implementation but also enhance accountability and resource optimisation within the sector.
Delivering technical insights, the National SWAp Facilitator, Dr Tolu Adeniji, a public health consultant based in Abuja, described the training as part of a national cascade initiative derived from the NHSHRII. He highlighted the workshop’s emphasis on systems strengthening, problem-solving, and leadership development—essential components for building effective and resilient health systems.
Dr Adeniji further explained that the SWAp approach is rooted in a tripartite agreement between the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, the Federal Ministry of Health, and the Presidency. The initiative aims to harmonise planning and implementation across all tiers of government, ensuring that health interventions are well-coordinated, evidence-based, and impactful.
Also contributing, the Gombe State SWAp Desk Officer and Director of Planning, Research, and Statistics at the Ministry of Health, Dr Suraj Abdulkarim, stressed the importance of data-driven decision-making.
He stated that the 2026 AOP would prioritise maternal and neonatal health, improve incentives for rural health workers, and address critical gaps in human resources for health. He added that activities outlined in the plan would be carefully tracked to measure progress and ensure transparency in execution.
In a show of solidarity, representatives of development partners including the World Health Organization (WHO), Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), and MSI Reproductive Choices, delivered goodwill messages, commending the Gombe State Government for its leadership and vision.
They pledged continued support—both technical and financial—to strengthen the state’s health indicators, especially in areas such as reproductive, maternal, newborn, and child health.
As the workshop progresses, participants are expected to produce a comprehensive and actionable operational plan that reflects the needs of Gombe residents while aligning with national and global health priorities.