Gov. Abba Yusuf of Kano says his administration is determined to reduce maternal and child mortality in the state.

Mr Yusuf made the declaration while launching the second phase of the 2024 Maternal and Neonatal Health (MNCH) Week at Kumbotso in Kumbotso Local Government Area of the state on Monday.

To this end, the spokesperson of Mr Yusuf, Sanusi Bature, said the state government had reinstated routine immunisation services which were abandoned for 18 months.

“From the start of his tenure in 2023, Gov. Yusuf prioritised maternal and child health, expressing grave concern over the suspension of immunisation programmes by the former government,” he said.

According to him, the governor has ordered the immediate restoration of these essential services and guaranteed timely funding for all immunisation exercises at both the state and federal levels.

“As you all know, health is our second priority after education.

”Within this sector, we are focusing on maternal and child health to prevent the avoidable loss of lives among pregnant women and their children,” the spokesperson quoted the governor as saying.

He highlighted that the 2024 state’s budget included robust provisions for immunisation services, ensuring sustainability and accessibility for all.

“Gov. Yusuf’s intervention reflects his administration’s resolve to address pressing healthcare challenges and improve the lives of Kano’s most vulnerable residents,” Mr Bature said.

Earlier, the state commissioner for health, Dr Abubakar Labaran, announced that Mr Yusuf would Inaugurate a state-of-the-art clinic dedicated to providing free and comprehensive care for patients living with sickle cell disease.

The commissioner said the specialised care centre was located at the Murtala Muhammad Specialists Hospital.

Mr Labaran said the facility would offer a wide range of free services, including diagnosis, consultations, medication and surgical operations for sickle cell disease patients.

He reiterated Mr Yusuf’s unwavering commitment to addressing the burden of sickle cell anaemia in line with his campaign promises and as outlined in his blueprint for healthcare reform.

The commissioner said the governor had signed into law a groundbreaking premarital health screening bill.

According to Mr Labaran, it prohibits marriages between intending couples with similar genotypes in the state, thereby preventing the birth of children with sickle cell anaemia.

“With this initiative, Gov. Yusuf is not only tackling the root cause of the disease but also ensuring that those already living with it receive the care and support they need.

“This special care centre is a testament to his administration’s determination to provide relief and hope for the victims while fostering a healthier future for the people of Kano State,” he added.

(NAN)