In the bid to stem the outbreak and spread of viral diseases in Kogi State, major stakeholders in the healthcare sector have been called upon to support the efforts of the state government.
The state commissioner for health, Dr. Saka Audu Haruna made the plea Wednesday in Lokoja, the state capital, while receiving a delegation of the World Health Organisation in Kogi State.
According to him, such gesture would in no small measure encourage the state in its battle against the hydra-headed diseases which are ravaging the global surface.
Hon. Saka said the state recognizes the concerted effort of the global institution in the face of other contending health challenges, but urged them to continue to intensify efforts to keep the diseases in check.
The commissioner commended the state governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello for his unrelenting effort towards ensuring the safety of lives and property in Kogi State.
He alluded to the fact that the ministry is also engaging the public in the area of advocacy and awareness to educate them on the precautionary measures and prevention of diseases.
Dr Saka Audu Haruna who was represented by the Permanent Secretary Mal. Abubakar Babamaaji said the state has put in place necessary measures to curb the outbreak and spread of Covid-19 in the state.
Dr. Saka expressed appreciation to the WHO for the donation of medical consumables to the State, adding that the items would be judiciously used for the purpose intended.
While admitting that the items donated would encourage the state in its fight against infectious diseases, he however solicited for more collaboration between the organization and the ministry
Items donated include surgical face mask, hand sanitizer, biohazard bag, gowns and aprons.
In his remarks, Director, Public Health, Dr Francis Akpa noted the long term relationship between the organization and the ministry, and commended the efforts of the organization especially in the area of polio eradication in the state.
Dr Akpa disclosed that the ministry got a letter which formally certified them in the fight against COVID-19.
He however, solicited for more support, adding that the ministry looks forward to more open doors to collaborate with the organization.
The State Coordinator, WHO, Pharm Kennedy Adejoh assured that the organisation would continue to support the state in the fight against the outbreak and spread of any virus disease, given the zeal and commitment shown so far.
He thanked the Kogi State government for the establishment of world class isolation centres in the state, and her genuine initiatives in the fight against poverty and hunger