From Umar Danladi Ado, Sokoto
The Africa Health Budget Network (AHBN) has commended the Sokoto State Government for increasing the 2025 budgetary allocation to the health sector, while urging timely approval and release of funds to strengthen immunisation and healthcare services.
The Convener of AHBN, Dr. Aminu Magashi Garba, made the call during a Zero Dose Learning Hub meeting held in Sokoto.
Dr. Garba noted that timely release of funds is crucial to sustaining vaccination programmes, particularly in hard-to-reach and insecurity-prone areas.
He also commended the state government’s effort to prioritise health in its 2025 budget, which stands at ₦526.88 billion, with ₦45.37 billion allocated to the health sector.
However, he urged the government to tackle insecurity and improve community engagement to ensure routine immunisation reaches all target children.
“While we appreciate the increase in the health budget, the next step is timely fund release and improved collaboration with communities to ensure effective implementation,” Garba said.
The network identified poor community participation, insecurity, and delays in fund disbursement as major barriers to successful immunisation campaigns across the state.
It further recommended involving local stakeholders in immunisation planning and implementation to boost trust and participation.
During the event, AHBN presented merit awards to five outstanding frontline health workers for their dedication to service.
The awardees included Sadiya Salihu (Dallahu PHC) as Most Dedicated PHC Staff, Sani Tukur (PHC Kofar Kade) as Most Committed Volunteer, and Murtala Iliyasu (Tureta LGA PHC) as Most Patient-Friendly Worker.
Others were Aliyu Ahmad, recognised as Most Hygienic PHC Staff in the State, and Abubakar Muhammad, awarded Best LGA Immunisation Officer.
Also speaking, Umar Garba Kadi, Sokoto State Focal Person of AHBN, advised mothers and caregivers to cooperate with government health programmes and ensure their children are immunised for better health outcomes.
The event concluded with renewed calls for stronger partnerships between government agencies, civil society, and communities to advance routine immunisation coverage in Sokoto State.
