Plateau govt provides N300m counterpart funding for primary health care

Plateau State Government has provided a counterpart funding of ₦300 million for Primary Health Care (PHC), which the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) matched with ₦600 million to support the procurement of small-quantity lipid-based nutrition supplements.

Governor Caleb Mutfwang disclosed this on Wednesday during a meeting with the delegation of UNICEF led by Dr. Nuzhat Rafique, Chief of Field Office at the Bauchi Field Office at the Government House, Little Rayfield. Jos, Plateau State.

The governor reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to improving the health and well-being of mothers and children across Plateau State, adding that the state’s collaboration with UNICEF remains vital in addressing key challenges related to maternal and child health, nutrition, education, and child protection.

He stated that the initiative by the state government forms a crucial aspect of the state’s broader strategy to enhance maternal and child health outcomes.

“We are fully committed to providing quality healthcare and education to our citizens. We deeply appreciate UNICEF’s continuous support in helping us realise these goals,” he stated.

The governor recalled that in 2024, his administration signed an MoU with UNICEF to tackle malnutrition, and he assured that the initiative remains a top priority.

“Special attention must be given to mothers and children due to their critical role in society. Our focus is now on concrete initiatives that will strengthen healthcare delivery, particularly at the primary healthcare level, where most women and children access essential services,” he emphasised.

Governor Mutfwang also urged UNICEF to intensify efforts in addressing pressing issues such as child abuse, slavery, and trafficking, which pose significant threats to the future of Plateau’s children and hinder progress in education and literacy.

“While nutrition is key, we must also confront the grave challenges of abuse and exploitation. As a government, we are taking decisive steps to address these issues, but we recognise the need for stronger collaborative action in education, poverty alleviation, and child protection. We look forward to innovative solutions that will help curb these disturbing trends,” he added.

The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s openness to multilateral collaborations, stressing the importance of sustained partnerships with UNICEF and other international organisations to accelerate development in the state.

“Although UNICEF’s office is based in Bauchi, Plateau State serves as a key anchor for the entire North-East region. We are eager to work closely with you to advance development in all sectors,” Governor Mutfwang assured.

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