Katsina State Governor, Mallam Dikko Radda, disclosed that his administration spent ₦3.777 billion on healthcare between June 2023 and April 2024.
At the commissioning of a sickle cell centre and free drug distribution, Radda explained that funds supported medical scholarships and healthcare upgrades. “Also, part of the funds was used for the upgrade of 102 primary healthcare centres in the state and plans are underway to upgrade 34 more to general hospitals by the end of the year.”
He added, “One hundred and twelve million naira was used to provide allowances for 542 medical students studying both within Nigeria and abroad.” Radda emphasized an 800% increase in healthcare funding and urged pre-marital medical tests to prevent sickle cell disease.
The Governor praised his wife’s Safe Space Humanitarian Initiative. “This would significantly enhance the state government’s efforts to improve healthcare access for citizens,” he said.
Zulaihat noted, “The centre would not only distribute drugs regularly but also ensure prompt healthcare delivery in the state.” She added, “The NGO had registered nine thousand children and women living with sickle cell in the state and planned to enrol more in the programme across the three senatorial zones.”
Commissioner Musa Funtua reaffirmed the administration’s healthcare commitment, citing the sickle cell centre as evidence.
