The Executive Governor of Katsina State, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda PhD CON, has disclosed that plans are underway to upgrade Batagarawa Comprehensive Health Centre to a full fledged General Hospital.
Governor Radda made this known during an inspection visit to the Local Comprehensive Health Centre, Batagarawa LGA.
The Katsina Governor also issued an immediate directive for the renovation of the center’s burnt-down theater.
He directed the council chairman to prepare a formal report to the state government to expedite the release of funds for the renovation.
He emphasised that “The health of our citizen is paramount. We cannot afford delays in restoring vital medical facilities.”
Alhaji Bala Garba Tsanni, the Chairman of Batagarawa Local Council, had earlier appealed for the centre to be elevated to the status of a general hospital.
On his part, the Director of Primary Health Centres, Malam Aminu Yahya Kurfi, appealed to the State Government to provide more land for the construction of an isolation facility. This facility would be established by a partnership between the Alliance for Medical Action and the International Rescue Committee (IRC).
According to Kurfi, the two non-governmental organizations, in partnership with other agencies, are working together to reduce malnutrition among children under five. They have hired over 150 technical staff and taken responsibility for the pediatric section, providing free medical care.
To address the land allocation issues, Governor Radda instructed the council to officially request additional land for the isolation centre project from the Ministry of Lands.”.
The Katsina Governor acknowledged and praised the collaborative efforts of these NGOs in combating malnutrition among children under five and offering free pediatric care.
The inspection tour also included a visit to the Primary Health Centres in Abukur and Rimi Local Government, where Governor Radda expressed satisfaction upon observing medical personnel actively attending to patients.
