Government functionaries, traditional and religious leaders, as well as philanthropists, have been urged to support the state government's efforts in providing ambulances at all functional Primary Health Care (PHC) facilities in Niger State.
The State Coordinator of the Federation of Muslim Women Association of Nigeria (FOMWAN), Hajiya Aisha Ibrahim Lemu, made this appeal while addressing newsmen at the end of the association's second quarter, first bi-annual health review meeting held at Haske Luxury Hotel, Minna.
She emphasised that the request stemmed from key issues discussed by healthcare service providers in attendance, highlighting that the government alone cannot meet all the needs. Despite the state government's continuous efforts in providing drugs and manpower, additional support is crucial.
Hajiya Aisha also appealed to the state government to urgently build and provide additional structures in hard-to-reach communities, stressing that several lives are at stake.
In his contribution, the Director of Planning, Research, and Statistics of NiCare, Pharm. Abdul Musa, revealed that the state has approximately 563 blind people, over 224 individuals affected by polio, and about 552 deaf and dumb people. He suggested that constructing ramps at each primary healthcare facility would significantly ease access for people with disabilities.
Pharm. Musa also called for financial support, inclusion in activities, and the enrolment of people with disabilities in counterpart funding programs.
Pharm. Attahiru Malagi of the NiCare agency echoed these sentiments, appealing to well-to-do individuals, philanthropists, and government functionaries to support the relevant ministries. He appreciated the media's role in promoting healthcare services and urged continued support for government projects.
The Amira of FOMWAN, Hajiya Hauwa Kulu Abdullahi, expressed profound appreciation for the stakeholders' turnout despite the short notice. She thanked them for their valuable contributions and expertise, which are essential for advancing primary health care services in the state. She also urged the media to continue their professional responsibilities despite the demanding nature of their work.
The Niger State Ministry of Land and Survey recently held a heartfelt send-off ceremony for seven of its staff members who retired after years of dedicated service to the state.
During the event, held at the conference room of the Niger State Geographic Information System (NIGIS) on Friday, the Commissioner of the Ministry, Barr. Maurice Bello Magaji, expressed profound gratitude to the retirees for their invaluable contributions. He emphasised the technical nature of the ministry's work and urged the retirees to remain available for consultation, highlighting that their experience remains a vital asset.
"The wealth of experience these retirees possess cannot be discarded. They may have retired, but they are still part of our ministry," Magaji stated. He added that celebrating retired staff fosters a sense of belonging and motivates current employees.
The Commissioner also noted that retirement should be seen as an opportunity to explore new ventures, encouraging the retirees to stay connected with the ministry.
Dr. Abdul Hussaini, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, praised the initiative as a commendable in-house gesture by the staff to honour their retiring colleagues. He acknowledged the effort put into organising the event.
Ibrahim Musa Jemaku, General Manager of NIGIS, shared mixed emotions, reflecting on the long-standing bonds formed over more than 30 years. He appreciated the contributions of everyone involved in making the event a success, particularly the Commissioner and the Permanent Secretary.
Jemaku advised the retirees to be patient as they transit into a new phase of life, assuring them of the ministry's continued support.
Speaking on behalf of the retirees, Baba Alhaji Hassan expressed gratitude to God for allowing them to reach this milestone, remembering colleagues who were not as fortunate. He also sought forgiveness from anyone they might have wronged during their service.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of cash and other gifts to the retirees in recognition of their meritorious service to the state. Staff members wished the retirees well in their future endeavours and prayed for their continued good health.
