Katsina State Government Reiterates Commitment to Healthcare Development Amid Security Challenges

Musa Adamu Funtua, Honorable Commissioner ministry of Health, Katsina state 

The Katsina State Commissioner for Health, Musa Adamu Funtua, has emphasized the government’s efforts to enhance the healthcare sector and address existing challenges. He made this statement during an interaction with journalists shortly after the Katsina State Chairman of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), Nr. Nura Mu’azu, raised concerns over the withdrawal of health workers from facilities in insecurity-prone local government areas.

The NANNM chairman had cited cases of abductions, killings, and lack of safety for healthcare workers in the region, urging the government to act swiftly. "Nurses in these areas are constantly living in fear, being abducted, and in some cases killed. We have appealed to the Katsina State Government to take immediate action, but as of this press briefing, no significant steps have been taken," Nr. Nura stated. He also outlined specific demands from the association for the welfare and safety of healthcare workers.

In response, Commissioner Musa Adamu Funtua assured that the government has taken these demands seriously and has already started implementing some of them. He noted that the government has engaged in dialogue with the healthcare unions to address grievances, with 85% of the demands already resolved.

He also disclosed that the state government has inaugurated 102 new health centers across the state to improve access to healthcare services. According to him:
"This administration is committed to upgrading healthcare facilities across the state. We have commissioned the Charanci General Hospital along with new facilities, including a dialysis center, to cater to the needs of our citizens."

The commissioner added that competent healthcare workers have been recruited and trained to ensure efficient service delivery.

On the issue of security, he highlighted that the government has implemented special measures to safeguard health facilities, particularly in insecure local government areas. He stated:
"Security committees have been established to assess threats to public health and recommend appropriate actions. The government takes this issue very seriously."

He further confirmed that security has been reinforced at facilities like Kankara General Hospital and other areas affected by insecurity.

When asked about the recurring issue of kidnapping, especially targeting health workers, the commissioner reaffirmed the government’s stance against ransom payments. He said:
"We have taken decisive measures to protect our health workers from kidnappers. The government will not compromise on this matter."

The commissioner appealed to the NANNM and other healthcare unions to maintain their cooperation with the government in achieving the state’s healthcare objectives. He reiterated the administration’s commitment to bringing impactful reforms to the health sector, including upgrading medical equipment, increasing the workforce, and addressing any threats that could hinder the delivery of quality healthcare services.

The Katsina State Government reaffirmed its dedication to ensuring the welfare of its citizens through improved healthcare services, security, and infrastructure development.