By Abdul Kareem
Governor of Borno State, Babagana Zulum has announced a substantial investment of N200 million to support the residency training of 150 medical doctors. This initiative, designed to elevate the quality of healthcare services in the state, is set to enhance the expertise and skills of local doctors across various medical disciplines.
Governor Zulum unveiled the funding allocation during a meeting with the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in Maiduguri.
Under the initiative, 50 medical doctors under the employment of the Borno State Government will each receive N2 million, while over 100 Borno indigenes working in federal institutions are slated to receive N1 million each.
The financial support is intended to provide doctors with advanced clinical skills, practical experience, and specialized training, thereby contributing to the overall improvement of medical services in the region.
Emphasizing the administration’s unwavering commitment to healthcare service delivery, Governor Zulum expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts of national health leaders, including Prof. Mohammed Ali Pate and Dr. Muyi Aina, in advancing healthcare services in Borno State. The governor reiterated that the enhancement of healthcare remains a top priority for his administration, underscoring the critical role that well-trained medical professionals play in ensuring quality healthcare delivery.
He emphasized the importance of the new leadership of NMA working together to develop human resources for health, combat the issue of doctors leaving the country, and improve welfare through enhanced payment structures. The governor outlined strategies to retain medical professionals in Nigeria and urged the president to set achievable goals during their tenure.
Governor Zulum who reiterated his committed to fostering a supportive environment for progress, highlighted various initiatives in the healthcare sector. These include recruiting over 1000 medical personnel, building doctors’ quarters, establishing a state University teaching hospital, providing scholarships to medical students, allocating more than 15% of the budget to healthcare following the Abuja declaration, and enhancing primary healthcare facilities in Borno to meet sustainable standards. These efforts represent just a few of the many interventions underway in the healthcare sector.
Recognizing the governor’s dedication to healthcare reform and quality service delivery, the Nigerian Medical Association has appointed Governor Zulum as a champion for quality healthcare and the welfare of health workers.
NMA President Professor Bala Audu commended Governor Zulum’s leadership and urged him to continue advocating for universal quality healthcare, emphasizing the governor’s demonstrated capacity to drive positive change within the healthcare sector in Borno State.
Professor Audu also lauded Governor Zulum for his notable achievements in healthcare infrastructure development and initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of healthcare workers. He highlighted a successful medical outreach program initiated by doctors from various specialties, which has further contributed to the advancement of healthcare services in the state.
This significant investment in medical training forms part of a broader strategy by the Borno State government to position the state as a leader in healthcare and education. Despite facing challenges at the primary healthcare level, Borno State has garnered recognition for its effective primary healthcare initiatives. Through sustained efforts and strategic investments, Borno State continues to make significant strides towards improving public health outcomes and ensuring access to quality healthcare services for its residents.
The Humanitarian Times 