The Deputy Governor of Kebbi State, Senator Umar Abubakar Tafida, has advocated intensified efforts to contain the recent outbreak of cerebrospinal meningitis in Jega, Aliero, and other affected local government areas in the state.
He made the call during the opening session of a joint committee on immunization, primary health care, and environmental sanitation meeting held on Tuesday in Birnin Kebbi.
The Joint Committee on Immunization, Primary Health Care, and Environmental Sanitation is made up of representatives from the health and environment sectors, donor agencies, local government authorities, and traditional institutions.
Senator Tafida, who is chairman of the joint committee, emphasized the urgent need for coordinated action to prevent the further spread of the disease, particularly as preparations for the next phase of routine immunization are underway.
The deputy governor called on local government chairmen and traditional rulers to intensify public sensitization campaigns on immunization and environmental hygiene so as to ensure the success of health interventions across the state.
While congratulating the newly inducted members of the committee, Senator Tafida restated the state government’s commitment towards enhancing the primary healthcare system.
The Kebbi State commissioner of health, represented by the permanent secretary in the office, Dr. Aliyu Nuhu Koko, observed that the meeting was timely, more so as the committee is preparing to launch another round of immunization targeting communicable diseases.
Koko confirmed that containment measures are ongoing in areas affected by the outbreak of meningitis and appreciated the deputy governor for his presence and support, despite the short notice of the meeting.
