Law
By Ahmed Mohammad Kano
The Federal Government has commended Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, for signing into law the establishment of the Kano Centre for Disease Control and Prevention.
This move aims to strengthen the state’s capacity to combat infectious and tropical diseases.
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Ali Muhammad Pate, led a delegation from the ministry, the Gates Foundation, and the Aliko Dangote Foundation to Kano State Government House.
Prof. Pate praised Governor Yusuf’s swift action, expressing confidence that the new law would enhance disease surveillance, prevention, and control mechanisms in the state.
During the visit, Professor Pate discussed the resurgence of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus (cVDPV) in Kano, emphasizing the need for an urgent, coordinated response.
He also highlighted concerns over Kano’s high maternal and newborn mortality rate, which stands at 639 deaths per 100,000 live births.
To address these challenges, Professor Pate announced plans for Federal Government intervention, including the establishment of three maternal care centers and the expansion of primary healthcare services.
Governor Yusuf reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to eradicating poliovirus and improving public health in Kano, pledging to sustain collaborations with the Gates and Dangote Foundations.
The Governor also vowed to intensify immunization efforts, enhance healthcare worker capacity, and ensure essential vaccine availability.
Additionally, his government has reinstated counterpart funding for routine immunization, addressing gaps inherited from the previous administration.
Dr. Chris Elias, President of Global Development at the Gates Foundation, emphasized the need for renewed efforts to eliminate poliovirus, while Dr. Ahmad Iyan, representing the Aliko Dangote Foundation, conveyed Alhaji Aliko Dangote’s commitment to ensuring Nigeria is polio-free.
The establishment of the Kano Centre for Disease Control marks a critical step toward safeguarding the health and well-being of millions of residents, with strong commitments from both the state and federal governments, alongside continued support from international partners.
