Yobe State Governor, Hon. Mai Mala Buni, has urged the 17 Local Government Council Chairmen to work closely with traditional rulers in implementing proactive strategies to curb drug abuse across the state.
Speaking in Damaturu during a meeting focused on strengthening the state’s primary healthcare system, Governor Buni expressed concern over the growing menace of drug abuse, particularly in Northern Nigeria.
“We must act decisively and proactively to protect our youth and safeguard the future of our state from the destructive impact of drug abuse, which is becoming increasingly prevalent in many states,” Governor Buni stated.
He emphasized the need for strict enforcement of laws against the trafficking and consumption of illicit drugs, directing that all offenders be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
The governor also commended the Federal Government, development partners, and traditional institutions for their continued support in improving primary healthcare services in Yobe.
“This administration remains fully committed to delivering quality healthcare at all levels because a healthy population is fundamental to sustainable socio-economic development,” he said.
Highlighting the government’s achievements in the sector, Buni noted the establishment of 142 functional Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs), the provision of essential equipment and medication, and the recruitment and deployment of over 2,000 qualified health workers across the state.
“These interventions have significantly strengthened our healthcare delivery system and improved access to quality care for our people,” he added.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Muhammad Lawan Gana, reported that a routine immunization supervisory assessment conducted by the National Primary Health Care Development Agency ranked Yobe among the top-performing states in the country.
Similarly, the Executive Secretary of the Yobe State Primary Healthcare Management Board, Dr. Baba Gana Kundi Machina, applauded traditional rulers for their role in boosting immunization coverage. However, he pointed out a few challenges related to data reconciliation and non-compliance that need to be addressed in future campaigns.
