In his determination to the promotion of the Mission and Vision of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), the National President Hon. (Engr.) Bello Lawal has again reaffirmed his administration's determination to supporting Local Governments and Area Councils alongside its member constituents with overall objectives of fostering a strong partnership and service delivery.
Following the 65TH NATIONAL COUNCIL ON HEALTH BORNO STATE PROGRAMME with the Theme: Accelerating Pathway to Universal Health Coverage strategies to 2030 Success".
Hon. Bello assured that all issues concerning rural development through capacity strengthening programmes as it affects the health sector will be prioritized under his watch with his Exco, he said that in similar manner the National Secretariat has just concluded with a Nigerian based United State Government programme experts-the Management Sciences for Health (MSH) which is with a view of closing health gaps and moving rural development in the sector forward.
Addressing some group of Local government leaders in Maiduguri the Borno state capital, he appealed for collaborations and sustainability of it's plans and programmes.
Earlier, the Honourable Minister for Health Dr. Muhammad Ali Pate who was a Special Guest at the event on behalf of the Federal Government, called for collective action to address healthcare challenges, especially women’s and children’s issues.
The Health Minister made the call during the event on Thursday.
He further stressed the need for collaboration across all sectors, including government, healthcare providers and civil society organisations, “to tackle systemic barriers in healthcare, particularly in maternal health.”
He shared a personal account of a pregnant woman suffering from eclampsia, highlighting the risks faced by many Nigerians due to a lack of access to essential healthcare services.
Eclampsia is a rare but serious condition that occurs in the second half of pregnancy, causing seizures, high blood pressure, headaches, and blurry vision and convulsions, which usually occur in pregnant women with preeclampsia.
“We must act with urgency,” the minister declared, urging national effort to address the root causes of preventable deaths, particularly among women and children.
He called for a unified approach across federal, state and local levels, stressing the importance of the National Health Act, which aims to provide universal access to healthcare services.
Both stakeholders agreed on the need for improved healthcare infrastructure, especially in rural areas, where limited access to services and resources remained significant challenges.
He added, “It is not just about building more hospitals or clinics, but ensuring healthcare workers are trained, supported and equipped to deliver the best care.”
Appeal was also extended to private sector to contribute to the national health agenda, thereby aligning with government efforts to improve healthcare outcomes.
The visit provided ample opportunity for ALGON leadership to engage and interface together with key stakeholders in Borno.
The event ended on a positive note, with both parties expressing optimism for a stronger relationship and greater support for delivering on the huge expectations of the people brought to the fore by the Autonomy Judgement.
In attendance were some members of the National Executive Council - the National Welfare Officer Hon. (Dr.) Aminu Jauro Hassan, the Acting Director General Barr. Mrs. Evan Enekwe, the Technical Adviser to the National President, Hon. Shehu Jega, members of the State Government delegation and Local Government Council Chairmen in the Area.