The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has announced plans to rehabilitate 11 primary healthcare facilities across Bauchi State to improve access to quality healthcare services for women and children.
Dr. Nuzhat Rafique, Chief of UNICEF Field Office in Bauchi, made the disclosure on Monday during a meeting with officials of the state Primary Healthcare Development Agency (PHCDA) and representatives from the eight participating local government councils.
She said the facilities had been formally handed over to UNICEF for revitalisation, with a three-month completion timeline. The project will cover service delivery points, water supply, and solarisation of the health centres. Rafique urged contractors to strictly adhere to UNICEF guidelines during implementation.
According to the plan, two facilities each in Ningi and Ganjuwa would be upgraded, while one clinic each in Alkaleri, Bauchi, Gamawa, Itas/Gadau, Katagum, Shira, and Toro would also be revitalised. She emphasised that the intervention aims to ensure women and children have access to quality healthcare.
Rafique called on local health officials and stakeholders to monitor the projects effectively and urged residents to cooperate with workers to ensure smooth execution. She commended the Bauchi State government for providing an enabling environment and prioritising the welfare of women and children.
Dr. Rilwanu Mohammed, Chairman of PHCDA, said the agency had relocated some facilities temporarily to facilitate smooth service delivery during the rehabilitation. “The work is expected to be completed on time because it is not easy to move healthcare facilities away from their sites for a long period,” he said.
He added that accommodation spaces would be identified for the PHCs to ensure continued access to healthcare services. Mohammed stressed the importance of girl child education, noting that educated girls are more likely to seek healthcare for themselves and their children.