The Kaduna State Ministry of Health has commenced a three-day workshop for the development of the 2027 Health Sector Annual Operational Plan (AOP).

The workshop brought together health sector leaders, programme managers, technical experts, and development partners.

Speaking at the opening of the workshop, the Commissioner for Health, Umma Ahmed, challenged stakeholders to develop a practical, evidence-based, and results-driven plan that would translate the state’s health priorities into measurable improvements in the lives of citizens.

Ms Ahmed said the 2027 Health Sector Annual Operational Plan (AOP) must go beyond a list of activities.

She urged participants to prioritise primary health care, maternal and child health, immunisation, essential medicines, human resources, quality healthcare, health financing, and equitable access to services.

Ms Ahmed stressed the need for proper costing, clear funding sources, accountability, and value for money, noting that every activity must be realistic, measurable, and sustainable.

“An unfunded activity is not a plan; it is an aspiration,” the commissioner said.

She reaffirmed the state’s commitment to achieving universal health coverage (UHC) and called for stronger coordination among government institutions and development partners to eliminate duplication and maximise available resources.

Ms Ahmed appreciated Governor Uba Sani for his continued support to the health sector and commended development partners for their technical and financial contributions.

The commissioner urged participants to use the three-day workshop to produce a focused, realistic, properly costed, and adequately funded 2027 AOP capable of accelerating improved health outcomes across the state.
(NAN)