Kwara Rising

Category: Health

  • Kwara Govt, UNICEF Train 100 New Health Workers to Boost Primary Healthcare

    Kwara Govt, UNICEF Train 100 New Health Workers to Boost Primary Healthcare

    …Programme funded through UNICEF’s $500,000 Leadership Challenge Award

    The Kwara State Government, in partnership with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has trained 100 newly recruited health workers to strengthen the delivery of effective, safe, and timely primary healthcare services across the state.

    The nine-day training, which took place in Omu-Aran, Irepodun Local Government, was facilitated by the Kwara State Primary Health Care Development Agency (KWSPHCDA) with funding support from UNICEF. The funds came from the $500,000 Leadership Challenge Award won by the state, marking the second time Kwara has clinched the North Central prize.

    Executive Secretary of KWSPHCDA, Prof. Nusirat Elelu, said the programme was designed to build the capacity of the new recruits, many of whom were employed during the state’s last recruitment exercise and had little or no prior experience in primary healthcare facilities.

    “This training is crucial because it provides an opportunity to introduce them to the basics of Primary Health Care. Some of them are coming into this space for the first time, and we must equip them to serve effectively,” she said.

    Director of Primary Health Care Systems, Dr. Michael Oguntoye, explained that the trainees were taken through the principles of PHC, including preventive, promotive, curative, and rehabilitative services. He stressed that the exercise would improve health outcomes and promote healthier communities.

    “This training will ensure that even those who have never worked in a PHC setting are adequately prepared to function well in their duty posts,” Dr. Oguntoye added.

    Also speaking, the Director of Personnel, Finance and Supply, Mr. Olayioye Ajide, briefed the participants on civil service rules guiding health workers, warning against acts of misconduct and urging them to remain law-abiding and diligent in their duties.

    The State Coordinator of Civil Society for Malaria Control, Immunization and Nutrition (ACOMIN), Femi Olatunbosun, lauded the state government and the agency for sustaining capacity-building initiatives for health workers, describing it as a step toward improved healthcare delivery in Kwara.

  • Kwara Gov Hails Lafiagi-born Scientist for Winning $150,000 Global HIV Research Grant

    Kwara Gov Hails Lafiagi-born Scientist for Winning $150,000 Global HIV Research Grant

    … AbdulRazaq says Dr. Abdullahi’s feat places Kwara, Nigeria on global health map

    Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has congratulated Dr. Adam Hussein Abdullahi, a Lafiagi-born global health scientist, on winning the prestigious Collaborative Initiative for Paediatric HIV Education and Research (CIPHER) Grant.

    Valued at $150,000, the CIPHER Grant was awarded to just four researchers worldwide after a highly competitive process involving over 1,000 applicants. Dr. Abdullahi, a child of Dr. Abdullahi Amanah, President of the Lafiagi Descendants’ Development Union (LADDU), emerged as one of only two Africans selected in this cycle.

    A former Harvard Takemi Fellow and Research Associate at the University of Cambridge, Dr. Abdullahi has made notable contributions in global health, with his work covering SARS-CoV-2 vaccine immunogenicity in West Africa and Mpox transmission risks in Nigeria.

    Governor AbdulRazaq described the award as a reward for Dr. Abdullahi’s years of research, dedication, and professional commitment to advancing solutions in global health.

    “We are proud of the achievements of Dr. Adam Hussein Abdullahi. This global recognition is not only a personal triumph but also a moment of pride for Kwara and Nigeria. His research and humanitarian mission to help young children live meaningful lives despite their HIV status are inspiring. We wish him many more breakthroughs and recognitions in the years ahead,” the Governor said in a statement.

    The Governor urged Dr. Abdullahi to remain steadfast in his mission of improving lives through science and innovation, noting that his feat has placed Kwara and Nigeria on the global map of health research excellence.

  • KWASU Council Chair Commends Gov AbdulRazaq for Transforming Health, Education Sectors

    KWASU Council Chair Commends Gov AbdulRazaq for Transforming Health, Education Sectors

    …. Ambali hails conversion of General Hospital to Teaching Hospital ahead of medical school accreditation

    The Chairman of the Governing Council of Kwara State University (KWASU) and former Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. AbdulGaniyu Ambali, has applauded Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for what he described as impactful governance that has brought unprecedented development to Kwara, particularly in the education and health sectors.

    Prof. Ambali made the commendation during a courtesy visit to the Kwara State University Teaching Hospital (KWASUTH) in preparation for the final accreditation of the university’s medical school and the commencement of clinical training for medical students.

    He praised the administration’s decision to transform the General Hospital into a Teaching Hospital, saying the move will not only aid the training of medical students and related professionals but also improve healthcare delivery across the state.

    “The present administration under the leadership of His Excellency, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has embarked on projects that have significant and direct impact on the people, especially the conversion of the General Hospital into a Teaching Hospital. This will support the training of medical professionals and enhance quality healthcare services for Kwarans and neighbouring states,” Ambali said.

    The Council Chairman urged the hospital management to ensure full readiness ahead of the September accreditation by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) and the resumption of clinical training for students immediately afterward.

    In his remarks, the Chief Medical Director of KWASUTH, Dr. Bola Ahmed, thanked Prof. Ambali and KWASU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Sheikh Luqman Jimoh, for their commitment to making the medical school project a reality. He commended the state government for its continued investment in critical medical equipment, noting that these provisions will improve service delivery and position Kwara as a pace-setter in healthcare development.

    Dr. Ahmed assured that the government remains committed to providing the facilities, equipment, and manpower required to further strengthen the hospital’s capacity for medical training and healthcare delivery.

    The meeting was attended by Prof. Jimoh and other top management officials of KWASUTH.

  • Kwara Govt Launches Patient Medical Assistance Trust Fund

    Kwara Govt Launches Patient Medical Assistance Trust Fund

    … New initiative to ensure indigent patients are not denied treatment in state hospitals

    The Kwara State Hospitals Management Board (KWHMB) has announced the establishment of the Patient Medical Assistance Trust Fund, a scheme aimed at providing timely financial support for patients who are unable to afford essential medical care.

    According to the Board, the initiative is designed to ensure that no patient in state hospitals is denied treatment due to financial constraints.

    The Trust Fund will mobilize resources through corporate social responsibility donations and individual contributions, which will be used to cover the cost of critical treatments, surgeries, and medications for indigent patients.

    Dr. Abdulraheem Malik, Executive Secretary of KWHMB, said the scheme underscores the government’s commitment to equity, compassion, and improved access to healthcare for all residents of Kwara State.

    “The Patient Medical Assistance Trust Fund is a vital step in bridging the gap between medical need and affordability. It will ensure that the most vulnerable members of our society can access lifesaving healthcare without the burden of financial hardship,” he said.

  • Kwara Hospital Receives State-of-the-Art Equipment

    Kwara Hospital Receives State-of-the-Art Equipment

    …CMD Applauds Governor AbdulRazaq

    #KwaraRising

    The Chief Medical Director of Kwara State Teaching Hospital (KWASUTH), Dr. Bola Ahmed, has praised Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his unwavering commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery in the state. Dr. Ahmed spoke during a ceremony marking the presentation of advanced critical medical equipment to the hospital’s Dr. Amuda Aluko Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

    Describing the equipment delivery as “another landmark achievement” of the current administration, Dr. Ahmed highlighted the tangible improvements in healthcare infrastructure and patient care. The newly provided items aim to bolster the hospital’s capacity across several specialties, including surgery, anesthesia, and emergency medicine.

    Equipment unveiled at the event includes a high-powered C-ARM imaging system (10 kW) for precise surgical guidance, a modern operating table designed for optimal patient care, a diathermy machine for elective tissue procedures, a ventilator, and an anesthesia machine—each set to elevate the hospital’s capability to deliver advanced healthcare services.

    Dr. Idowu Ogunlaja, Chairperson of the hospital’s Medical Advisory Committee, also commended the state government for equipping the hospital and reaffirmed the management’s commitment to protecting and utilising the investments to improve treatment services effectively.

    The presentation was attended by several hospital officials, including the Hospital Secretary, Mr. Aliyu Yusuf, and the Head of Nursing Department, Mrs. Yusuf Nimota.

    This milestone reflects Governor AbdulRazaq’s wider strategy to position Kwara State as an exemplar in quality and accessible healthcare delivery across Nigeria.

  • Kwara Government Donates Modern Ultrasound Equipment to State University Teaching Hospital

    Kwara Government Donates Modern Ultrasound Equipment to State University Teaching Hospital

    …New facility expected to improve round-the-clock healthcare delivery in Ilorin

    #KwaraRising

    The Kwara State Government has donated a new set of modern ultrasound equipment and solar power accessories to the Kwara State University Teaching Hospital (KWASUTH), Ilorin, to strengthen its capacity for 24-hour healthcare services.

    The presentation took place on Tuesday at the hospital premises. Representing the Chief Medical Director, Dr. Bola Ahmed, at the event was the Chairman of the Medical Advisory Council, Dr. Idowu Ogunlaja.

    Dr. Ogunlaja described the donation as a landmark gesture by the administration of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, saying it would significantly enhance the hospital’s ability to provide affordable and quality healthcare to residents of Kwara and neighbouring states.

    He praised the Governor’s commitment to healthcare development, describing the sector as key to the well-being of the people. “This is another milestone that reflects the government’s serious investment in the health of its citizens,” he said.

    Dr. Ahmed, through his representative, assured that the hospital would put the equipment to good use and ensure improved access to diagnostic services.

    The new items include a high-grade ultrasound scanning machine and solar panels with their accessories, designed to support continuous service delivery even during power outages.

    The event was attended by several hospital and government officials, including the Hospital Secretary, Mallam Yusuf Aliyu; a representative of the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Amina Ahmed El-Imam; Mrs. Abdullah Fatimoh; Store Officer Mr. Karim Babatunde; and other KWASUTH staff.

  • Kwara Government Commissions Renovated Office for HIV/AIDS Control

    Kwara Government Commissions Renovated Office for HIV/AIDS Control

    …Facility to support SASCP and Society for Family Health operations in fight against HIV epidemic

    The Kwara State Government has unveiled a newly renovated six-room office space dedicated to enhancing the activities of the State AIDS and STIs Control Programme (SASCP) and the Society for Family Health (SFH).

    The facility, commissioned by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Amina Ahmed El-Imam, is seen as a key step in the state’s ongoing efforts to achieve HIV epidemic control. She said the renovation was made possible through the Global Fund GC7 N-THRIP Grant, implemented by SFH as a sub-recipient to the HIV National Programme in partnership with the state Ministry of Health.

    Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Dr. El-Imam said the project will strengthen the coordination of HIV interventions in the state and provide a better working environment for health workers. She commended the collaboration between the Ministry, SFH, and development partners, noting that the new office will help improve efficiency and coordination in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

    “The newly renovated space will provide a more enabling environment for our teams. This is about sustainability and ensuring our health systems have the support they need to function effectively,” she said.

    The Commissioner reiterated the state government’s commitment to providing infrastructure that supports health programmes and interventions across Kwara.

    In his remarks, the Team Lead for the Society for Family Health in Kwara, Dr. Owen Omede, thanked the Commissioner for her consistent support and highlighted the importance of the new office. He said it will serve as a base for teams working on HIV prevention, treatment, care, and support services.

    “This would not have been possible without your immense commitment to achieving HIV epidemic control. We are also grateful to the Director of Public Health and the SASCP team for their dedication,” Dr. Omede said.

    He added that the office would enhance the effectiveness of HIV response efforts and ensure Kwara stays on course in its fight to control and eventually end the HIV epidemic.  

  • Kwara Govt Opens Recruitment for Medical Officers

    Kwara Govt Opens Recruitment for Medical Officers

    …Seeks Doctors to Boost Healthcare Across State Hospitals

    #KwaraRising

    The Kwara State Hospitals Management Board has announced vacancies for qualified medical officers as part of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s healthcare expansion initiative. The recruitment aims to strengthen medical services in general and cottage hospitals statewide.

    Eligible candidates must possess an MBBS/MBChB degree from accredited institutions, valid Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) registration, and NYSC completion certificate. Applicants should demonstrate clinical competence and readiness for deployment across Kwara’s healthcare facilities.

    Interested doctors are required to submit their CVs, credentials, MDCN license, and NYSC documents either physically at the KW-HMB office on Fate Road, Ilorin or via WhatsApp to +2348057833718 before August 1, 2025.

    “The recruitment reflects our commitment to improving healthcare accessibility for all residents,” stated the Board’s Executive Secretary. Successful candidates will join Kwara’s growing network of public health professionals delivering essential services.

  • Kwara Govt Flags Off Free Oral Health Outreach

    Kwara Govt Flags Off Free Oral Health Outreach

    …Reaffirms Commitment to Holistic Wellbeing

    The Kwara State Government has restated its strong commitment to promoting oral health as a key component of general wellbeing, urging residents to embrace preventive care and regular dental check-ups.

    This was made known by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Amina Ahmed El-Imam, during the opening of a three-day free oral health outreach organised by the Ministry of Health in collaboration with Pharma Decko PLC at the Kwara State University Teaching Hospital (KWASUTH), Ilorin.

    Represented by the Director of Public Health, Dr. Oluwatosin Fakayode, the Commissioner said oral health is often neglected despite being foundational to overall health.

    “Oral health is the cornerstone of overall health, yet it is often neglected. Poor oral hygiene contributes to several non-communicable diseases. Its effects may be gradual but often become severe if left unaddressed. That’s why this outreach is timely and essential,” El-Imam said.

    She commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his sustained investments in the health sector, including the renovation and equipping of the state’s dental clinic, which she described as a major step forward in improving access to dental care.

    The Commissioner urged Kwarans to take full advantage of the outreach by getting free dental checks, treatments, and professional advice on oral hygiene.

    Also speaking, the Managing Director of Pharma Decko PLC, Mr. Ishola Olukayode, praised the Kwara State Government and Ministry of Health for their swift support.

    “Despite the short notice, the Ministry gave us overwhelming support. Pharma Decko PLC is committed to supporting oral health in Nigeria. Unfortunately, due to lack of awareness, many people still use harmful substances on their teeth, risking their general health,” he noted.

    Mr. Olukayode emphasized that oral care involves more than just daily brushing. He advocated for regular professional check-ups and increased public sensitization to tackle deep-rooted misconceptions and risky practices.

    During an oral health education session at the event, Deputy Director of Public Health, Dr. Kasali Ajao, revealed that brushing alone addresses only about 40% of oral health needs. He recommended scaling and polishing at least twice a yearfor proper dental care.

    “Comprehensive oral hygiene requires professional care, not just daily brushing,” he added.

    The free oral health outreach continues until Thursday at the Dental Unit of KWASUTH, offering residents free diagnoses and treatments, including scaling, polishing, and oral health consultations.

    Residents are encouraged to turn out in large numbers and use the opportunity to take proactive steps towards better oral and overall health.

  • Kwara Trains 50 Frontline Health Workers to Improve Maternal and Neonatal Care

    Kwara Trains 50 Frontline Health Workers to Improve Maternal and Neonatal Care

    …State Government Partners UNICEF for Intensive 10-Day Capacity Building on Emergency Obstetrics and Newborn Care

    #KwaraRising

    In a strategic effort to further reduce maternal and neonatal mortality rates across Kwara State, the government has launched a 10-day intensive training for 50 frontline healthcare workers across all 16 Local Government Areas. The training, which began on Monday, May 26, 2025, is being organized by the Kwara State Primary Health Care Development Agency with support from UNICEF and other development partners.

    Speaking at the opening ceremony held at Peace Hotel and Suites, Tanke, Ilorin, the Executive Secretary of the Agency, Prof. Nusirat Elelu, emphasized that the initiative is part of the state government’s broader commitment to improving the quality of maternal and child health services.

    “This is the second time we are organizing this specialized training on Basic Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (BEmONC), and the impact has been remarkable,” Prof. Elelu stated. “The first round not only doubled the number of safe deliveries in our primary healthcare centres, but also significantly reduced maternal and infant mortality. Kwara is now one of the safest places in the country to give birth.”

    Prof. Elelu acknowledged the visionary leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, highlighting his recent recruitment of 105 additional frontline health workers and his commitment to revitalizing primary healthcare infrastructure across the state. She noted that each geopolitical zone now has at least one functional, well-staffed PHC, thanks to the Governor’s “revolutionary investments in healthcare.”

    She also commended the facilitators and encouraged the trainees to approach the program with utmost seriousness, stressing the critical role they play in managing complications during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period.

    Also speaking at the event, Dr. Michael Oguntoye, Director of Primary Health Care Systems, noted that the training is designed to enhance the capacity of available health workers to respond to the needs of local communities. “With this initiative, we are preparing our workforce to reduce preventable deaths and meet global health targets,” he said.

    The Lead Facilitator, Prof. Hadijat Raji of the University of Ilorin’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, stressed the urgent need for capacity building in maternal and newborn care. “Despite progress, maternal and neonatal deaths in Nigeria remain unacceptably high, mostly due to delays in care,” she said. “This training will equip participants with the skills to identify and respond to life-threatening complications quickly and effectively.”

    Prof. Raji praised the Kwara State Government, UNICEF, and all supporting stakeholders for making the training possible, urging participants not only to apply what they’ve learned but also to serve as mentors and advocates within their healthcare facilities.

    The training is expected to conclude on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, with a renewed pool of well-trained, frontline health workers ready to scale impact across the state’s health system, especially at the grassroots level.