Editor
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID)-funded Local Health System Sustainability (LHSS) Project has conducted a comprehensive capacity-building training for staff of the Sokoto and Zamfara State Contributory Healthcare Management Agencies.
The training recently held at Azbir Hotel in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, aimed to equip participants with critical skills to improve healthcare service delivery.
In his opening remarks, Yusuf Abu Abdulkarim, Director General of the Sokoto State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (SOCHEMA), welcomed participants and underscored the importance of the program.
He highlighted the training as timely, aligning with the agency’s readiness to launch its formal sector healthcare scheme.
“This training will provide you with the tools necessary for the tasks ahead, particularly as we roll out the formal sector healthcare program,” Abdulkarim stated.
He expressed gratitude to USAID for facilitating the training and urged attendees to engage actively to ensure the scheme’s success.
Advocacy for Sokoto State Healthcare Scheme
As part of its implementation strategy, SOCHEMA has intensified advocacy efforts by visiting ministries, departments, and agencies in Sokoto State to raise awareness about the formal sector healthcare scheme.
During these visits, Yusuf Abu Abdulkarim explained the scheme’s benefits and its alignment with Governor Ahmad Aliyu’s nine-point agenda, which prioritizes accessible and affordable healthcare.
“The formal sector healthcare program is tailored to provide comprehensive medical services to civil servants and their families. Our commitment is to ensure its smooth and successful implementation,” Abdulkarim said.
At the Sokoto State Head of Civil Service office, Alhaji Sama’ila Wali, Permanent Secretary for Administration and General Services, commended SOCHEMA for its proactive approach.
He described the advocacy as timely and urged the agency to maintain a workforce that is both well-trained and motivated to ensure seamless program delivery.
Also, Abubakar D. Muhammad, Program Manager of the Sokoto Agricultural Development Project (SADP), and Umar Bello Wamakko of the Sokoto Fertilizer Supply Company lauded the initiative. They expressed their commitment to supporting awareness efforts and pledged to inform their teams about the scheme’s benefits.
Advancing Healthcare Access
The Sokoto State formal sector healthcare scheme is set to enhance the welfare of civil servants and their families by ensuring access to quality healthcare services. SOCHEMA’s initiatives, including capacity-building and advocacy, are pivotal steps towards achieving sustainable healthcare delivery and improving the well-being of the state’s workforce.
