In a major move to strengthen healthcare delivery, the Gombe State Government has commissioned 114 revitalised Primary Health Care (PHC) facilities across the state, marking a significant milestone in its ongoing healthcare reform efforts. The commissioning ceremony took place at the Akko PHC.
Representing Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya at the event, Deputy Governor Dr. Manassah Daniel Jatau described the project as a clear demonstration of the administration’s commitment to improving the health and well-being of citizens.
“To God be the glory for granting us the privilege to witness this moment, which pertains to our health the foundation of all human activity,” Dr. Jatau said, while extending the Governor’s gratitude to guests and stakeholders.
Since assuming office in 2019, Governor Yahaya’s administration has made considerable progress in the health sector. According to Dr. Jatau, the state has increased its healthcare budget allocation from 3.5% in 2019 to 15% in 2025, in line with the Abuja Declaration.
He also highlighted key achievements such as the creation of the Gombe State Contributory Health Agency now serving over 300,000 people and improved access to medicines through the state’s Drug Management Agency.
The revitalisation of the 103 PHCs and 66 additional health clinics was carried out with support from the World Bank-funded IMPACT project. The facilities have been upgraded with solar power systems, clean water supply, medical equipment, and staff accommodation to enhance service delivery.
“As we commission these facilities, I urge our communities to take ownership and ensure their sustainability for future generations,” Dr. Jatau added.
The World Bank has recognised Gombe State’s efficient resource management and quality infrastructure delivery, ranking it first under the IMPACT project nationwide.
Commissioner for Health, Dr. Habu Dahiru, said the project is part of the state’s broader plan to address key health challenges, particularly maternal and child health, malnutrition, and immunisation gaps.
“This programme reflects Governor Yahaya’s determination to improve Gombe’s health indices,” Dr. Dahiru stated, urging traditional and community leaders to mobilise support and encourage residents to access the improved services.
Dr. Onoriode Ezire, Technical Team Lead of the IMPACT project, lauded the state government for achieving quality results with limited resources.
“Gombe has proven that prudent management can deliver world-class infrastructure,” he said.
Dr. Amina Abdu-One Mohammed, National Project Coordinator of IMPACT, stressed the need for continuous support to ensure the success of the upgraded centres.
“It’s not just about buildings. We must ensure the facilities have the right staff, essential drugs, and that people actually use them,” she noted.
Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Kashere, Chairman of the Gombe State Primary Health Care Development Agency, applauded the administration’s efforts, calling on residents to take full advantage of the improved services and safeguard the facilities.
Local leaders, including Akko LGA Chairman Alhaji Danladi Adamu and the Lamido Gona, Alhaji Umar Abdulkadir Abdul Salam, pledged their support to ensure the facilities remain functional and accessible to all.