KHETFUND ES Visits Khalifa Isyaku Rabiu Hospital for Post-Funding Verification of N11 Million Paediatric Residency Intervention

By Maryam Umar 

In a major step toward advancing specialized medical training and elevating healthcare delivery in the state, the Executive Secretary of the Kano State Health Trust Fund (KHETFUND), Dr. Fatima Usman Zahraddeen, alongside her team, conducted a post-funding verification visit to the Khalifa Isyaku Rabiu Paediatric Hospital.

The high-level oversight visit, which held on Tuesday, 14th July 2026, follows the Fund’s release of over N11 million on 12th March 2026 to the facility. The financial support, granted under KHETFUND’s 2026 Regular Intervention, was specifically designated to secure official accreditation for the hospital's Paediatric Residency Training program.

During the verification exercise, Dr. Fatima Usman Zahraddeen expressed satisfaction with the hospital's utilization of the funds, noting that cultivating local medical specialists is vital to achieving long-term autonomy and excellence in Kano's health sector.

"Our visit today confirms that public resources are being deployed transparently and effectively," said Dr. Zahraddeen. "By funding this residency accreditation, we are not just supporting a hospital; we are investing in the next generation of paediatricians who will safeguard the health of our children.

"The intervention perfectly complements the vision of Executive Governor Alh. Abba Kabir Yusuf and the Ministry of Health under Dr. Abubakar Labaran Yusuf to attract, train, and retain top-tier medical talent right here in Kano." 

The ES further stressed that, "The intervention directly mirrors the overarching policies and programs of the state government, operating in strict tandem with the administration’s transformative 'Kano First Agenda.' 

"On this note, I want to assure the good people of Kano that KHETFUND remains deeply committed to providing the sustainable financial mechanisms required to eliminate systemic funding gaps in the state's healthcare landscape," Dr. Zahraddeen reaffirmed.

Receiving the delegation, the Chief Medical Director of Khalifa Isyaku Rabiu Paediatric Hospital, Dr. Safiya Gambo, commended KHETFUND's strategic alignment with the practical needs of frontline healthcare institutions. She emphasized that strengthening institutional capacity through such interventions is crucial to upgrading local clinical training standards.

"This intervention is a testament to what structured healthcare financing can achieve for our hospitals," the CMD stated, adding that "KHETFUND’s support for our postgraduate paediatric residency training directly empowers us to elevate our care standards.

Established as a credible, sustainable, and additional funding gateway, KHETFUND continues to bridge critical resource deficits, ensuring that healthcare facilities across Kano State are thoroughly equipped, accredited, and empowered to deliver quality clinical services to the public.

Kano DMCSA Marks Third Anniversary of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf at the Agency with Public Lecture on Drug Abuse, Reaffirms Commitment to a Healthier Kano

By Farouk Isa Musa 

As part of activities marking its third anniversary, the Kano State Drugs and Medical Consumables Supply Agency (DMCSA) on Wednesday organized a public lecture on the menace of drug abuse, bringing together experts, government officials, religious leaders and stakeholders to address one of the most pressing public health and social challenges confronting society.

The lecture, held at the Agency's headquarters in Kano, was chaired by the Head of the Kano State Civil Service, Hajiya Bilkisu Shehu Maimota,, applauding the Kano State government under Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for transforming the health sector.

"First and foremost, I wish to express my profound appreciation to His Excellency for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to improving the health and well-being of the people of Kano State. Over the past three years, this administration has demonstrated remarkable dedication to strengthening our healthcare system, improving access to quality medicines, enhancing health infrastructure, and implementing policies that promote the welfare of our citizens."

She decried the prevalence of drug abuse as one of the greatest societal evils threatening the well-being of  communities, particularly young people, stressing that tackling the challenge requires sustained public enlightenment and collective action.

"Today, we have gathered to deliberate on an issue that affects every family, every community, and indeed the future of our dear State: - The growing menace of drug abuse. The drug abuse has become one of the most pressing public health and social challenges of our time. Its consequences extend beyond the individual, affecting families, communities, educational institutions, workplaces, and the overall socio-economic development of our society."

Bilkisu Maimota further observed thatt the fight against drug abuse cannot be left to government agencies alone. It requires collective responsibility involving families, religious leaders, traditional institutions, schools, healthcare professionals, security agencies, civil society organizations, and every well-meaning citizen. Prevention through education, early intervention, effective regulation, rehabilitation, and sustained community engagement remains the most effective strategy.

She also stressed that she was "particularly delighted that today's lecture brings together distinguished experts from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the psychiatric medical profession, and the Islamic scholarly community. Their wealth of experience and diverse perspectives will undoubtedly enrich our understanding of the causes, consequences, prevention, and management of drug abuse."

The Head of Civil Service then urged participants, particularly young people, to carefully reflect on the presentations delivered during the lecture and become advocates against drug abuse in their homes, schools and communities.

"I encourage all participants to listen attentively, engage actively during the discussions, and take-home practical lessons that will enable us to become advocates against drug abuse within our various communities. Together, we can protect our young people, strengthen our families, and build a healthier, safer, and more productive Kano State," Maimota added.

She finally commended the DMCSA for organizing the lecture and for the remarkable achievements it recorded over the past three years, noting that its contributions have significantly strengthened access to quality and affordable medicines across Kano State.

"Let me commend the Management and staff of the Drugs and Medical Consumables Supply Agency for organizing this timely public lecture. Beyond ensuring the availability of safe, quality, and affordable medicines and medical consumables, the Agency has demonstrated its commitment to promoting public health through advocacy and community education.

"As we celebrate the achievements of this administration, let us also renew our collective commitment to building a society where our youth are empowered with hope, guided by sound values, and protected from the devastating effects of substance abuse," she concluded.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Director General of DMCSA, Pharm. Gali Sule, said the lecture formed part of the Agency's week-long activities commemorating three years of impactful service under the administration of Governor Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf.

He explained that while the Agency has made significant progress in ensuring the supply of quality, safe and affordable drugs to public health facilities across the state, addressing the misuse and abuse of medicines remains equally important in safeguarding public health.

"Our anniversary is not only a time to celebrate achievements but also an opportunity to give back to society through initiatives that improve public health awareness. Ensuring access to quality medicines is only meaningful when those medicines are used responsibly and safely," Pharm. Gali Sule stated.

The Director General reaffirmed the Agency's commitment to supporting government policies aimed at protecting citizens from counterfeit medicines, drug misuse and substance abuse through strategic partnerships, advocacy and continuous stakeholder engagement..

"The fight against drug abuse cannot be left to enforcement agencies alone. It requires collaboration among health institutions, regulatory agencies, religious leaders, educational institutions, parents and community leaders. DMCSA will continue to support every effort that promotes responsible medicine use and protects the health of our people," he added.

The lecture featured presentations by distinguished resource persons drawn from key institutions.

The State Coordinator of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Alhaji Kasim Ibrahim, delivered the first paper titled "Enlightening the Public on the Use of Substandard and Falsified Medicines," highlighting the dangers posed by counterfeit and fake medicines and the importance of purchasing drugs only from approved sources.

The second presentation, "The Menace of Drug Abuse in Society, Especially Among Youths," was delivered by Chief Superintendent of Narcotics Zubair *(......last name here)* representing the Kano State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), who emphasized preventive strategies and community involvement in combating substance abuse.

Dr. Aminu Shehu of the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Dawanau, presented the third paper on "The Dangers of Drug Abuse on the Mental and Physical Health of Society," where he examined the devastating health consequences of substance abuse and underscored the need for early intervention and treatment.

The final presentation was delivered by Sheikh Nura Adam Galadanchi of Jama'atul Tajdidul Islam on "The Menace of Drug Abuse from an Islamic Perspective," stressing the role of religious teachings, moral values and family guidance in preventing drug abuse and promoting healthy living.

The anniversary lecture formed part of DMCSA's broader efforts to commemorate three years of reforms and achievements in strengthening the pharmaceutical supply chain while promoting public awareness on issues critical to the health and well-being of the people of Kano State.

Gwarzo General Hospital Records Major Service Boost as KHETFUND Verifies N42.4 Million Intervention

By Margaret Titus 

The Executive Secretary of the Kano State Health Trust Fund (KHETFUND), Dr. Fatima Usman Zahraddeen, has restated the Fund's unwavering commitment to ensuring accountability and measurable impact in healthcare financing by leading a Post-Funding Verification Visit to Gwarzo General Hospital, where she inspected the successful implementation of N42,397,000 worth of interventions funded by the Trust Fund..

During the visit, which took place on 9th July 2026, the Executive Secretary, who was represented by Director Operations Dr. Lawan Adamu, verified the successful implementation of projects valued at N42,397,000, comprising the installation of a solar power system and the procurement of essential medical equipment. The funding for the interventions was disbursed by KHETFUND on 2nd December 2025.

Speaking during the inspection, Dr. Fatima Usman Zahraddeen, emphasized that the verification exercise is a vital component of KHETFUND's monitoring and evaluation framework, designed to ensure that every intervention financed by the Fund is executed in line with approved specifications and delivers tangible benefits to patients and healthcare workers.

"Our responsibility does not end with the disbursement of funds. We remain committed to following every project through to completion to ensure that public resources are judiciously utilized and that the intended healthcare outcomes are achieved. This verification exercise reflects our unwavering commitment to accountability, transparency, and value for money."

She noted that the installation of the solar power system would guarantee a more reliable electricity supply for critical hospital operations, while the newly procured medical equipment would strengthen service delivery and enhance the quality of care available to residents of Gwarzo and surrounding communities.

"Reliable power supply and functional medical equipment are fundamental to efficient healthcare delivery. These interventions will significantly improve the hospital's capacity to provide uninterrupted and quality services, ultimately contributing to better health outcomes for our people."

Dr. Fatima further reiterated that KHETFUND was established to provide a credible and sustainable additional funding mechanism that strengthens and improves the healthcare system by bridging critical financing gaps within the sector.

She reaffirmed the Fund's resolve to continue supporting strategic health interventions across the state while ensuring rigorous monitoring of all funded projects to maximize impact and promote public confidence in government investments.

The Post-Funding Verification Visit forms part of KHETFUND's broader mandate to monitor funded interventions, promote prudent utilization of public resources, and ensure that healthcare investments translate into measurable improvements in healthcare delivery throughout Kano State.

KHETFUND Conducts Post-Funding Verification of N87 Million Interventions at Bichi General Hospital

By Rukayya Nadabo 

In line with its mandate to promote transparency, accountability, and sustainable healthcare financing, the Kano State Health Trust Fund (KHETFUND), on Wednesday, 8th July 2026, conducted a comprehensive Pre-Funding and Post-Funding Verification Visit to Bichi General Hospital.

The verification exercise was led by the Executive Secretary of KHETFUND, Dr. Fatima Usman Zahraddeen, as part of the Fund's robust monitoring and evaluation framework designed to assess completed interventions, identify priority healthcare needs, and ensure that public resources are judiciously utilized to improve healthcare service delivery across Kano State.

During the visit, the Executive Secretary inspected the completed reconstruction of the hospital's perimeter wall fence, executed at a total cost of ₦87,070,503.07 through funds disbursed on 3rd September 2025 and was verified to ensure compliance with approved standards and value for money.

The team also conducted a pre-funding verification for the proposed solarization of the hospital's oxygen power plant, an intervention aimed at providing a reliable and sustainable power supply to support uninterrupted oxygen production and strengthen emergency and critical healthcare services at the facility.

Speaking during the visit, Dr. Fatima Usman Zahraddeen reaffirmed KHETFUND's unwavering commitment to ensuring that every intervention financed by the Fund delivers measurable impact to health facilities and the people of Kano State.

"Our pre-funding and post-funding verification exercises are critical to ensuring that healthcare investments are driven by genuine needs and that completed projects meet the highest standards of quality, accountability, and value for money. This approach guarantees that every intervention contributes meaningfully to strengthening our healthcare system."

She further emphasized that KHETFUND remains committed to supporting the healthcare transformation agenda of the Kano State Government under the Kano First Agenda, championed by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.

*The Kano First Agenda places the health and well-being of our citizens at the forefront of governance. KHETFUND will continue to support this vision through strategic investments in healthcare infrastructure, medical equipment, and other critical interventions while maintaining strict oversight to ensure efficient utilization of public funds."

Dr. Zahraddeen noted that routine pre-funding and post-funding verification visits have become integral to KHETFUND's accountability framework, enabling the Fund to identify priority interventions, monitor implementation, evaluate intervention outcomes, and reinforce public confidence in the management of healthcare resources.

The Kano State Health Trust Fund (KHETFUND) was established to provide a credible and sustainable additional funding mechanism for strengthening the state's healthcare system and bridging critical financing gaps. Through strategic investments in infrastructure, medical equipment, renewable energy solutions, and other essential healthcare interventions, the Fund continues to complement government efforts toward ensuring accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare services for all residents of Kano State.

The visit to Bichi General Hospital further demonstrates KHETFUND's steadfast commitment to transparency, accountability, and continuous investment in healthcare infrastructure to advance the delivery of quality healthcare services across Kano State.

KHETFUND Verifies ₦32.29 Million Health Interventions at Wudil General Hospital

By Maryam Umar

The Kano State Health Trust Fund (KHETFUND) has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring accountability and transparency in healthcare through a Post-Funding Verification Visit to Wudil General Hospital.

The verification exercise, conducted on 7th July 2026, was led by the Executive Secretary of KHETFUND, Dr. Fatima Usman Zahraddeen.

During the visit, the team verified healthcare interventions valued at ₦32,290,000, which were funded by KHETFUND following the disbursement of funds on 13th January 2026. The verified projects included the installation of a solar power system, the procurement of hospital mattresses, and the supply of batteries for the hospital's X-ray machines.

The verification exercise forms part of KHETFUND's post-funding monitoring framework aimed at ensuring that approved projects are executed as planned, resources are judiciously utilized, and healthcare facilities deliver improved services to the people of Kano State.

Speaking during the visit, the Executive Secretary, who was represented by the Director Admin and General Services, Alhaji Abubakar Bala, emphasized that regular monitoring and verification of funded projects remain essential to promoting transparency, accountability, and quality healthcare service delivery across the state, as in line with policies of the Kano State Government headed by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf. 

Established to provide a credible and sustainable additional funding mechanism for the health sector, the Kano State Health Trust Fund (KHETFUND) continues to strengthen and improve the state's healthcare system by bridging critical funding gaps and supporting strategic interventions that enhance access to quality healthcare for all residents of Kano State.

Swipha Pharma Donates Anti-Malaria Drugs to Kano DMCSA, Commends Agency's Transformation

By John Samuel

The management of Swipha Pharma Nigeria Limited has donated anti-malaria drugs worth an estimated ₦500,000 to the Kano State Drugs and Medical Consumables Supply Agency (DMCSA) as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, as the gesture also reflects Swipha Pharma's satisfaction with the cordial and productive business relationship established with DMCSA.

The donation was presented by representatives of the pharmaceutical company during a courtesy visit to the Agency's headquarters, where they commended the remarkable transformation and progress recorded at DMCSA under the leadership of the Director General, Pharm. Gali Sule.

Speaking while receiving the donated commodities, Pharm. Gali Sule, expressed appreciation to Swipha Pharma Nigeria Limited for the generous gesture, describing it as a demonstration of the company's commitment to supporting healthcare delivery in Kano State.

He noted that the donation would significantly contribute to strengthening the Agency's capital base while enhancing its capacity to provide essential medicines to health facilities across the state.

Pharm. Gali Sule assured the company that the donated drugs would be utilized judiciously, for the benefit of the people of Kano State.

The Director General reaffirmed the commitment of the Agency's leadership to improving efficiency in supply chain management through the provision of quality, affordable, and accessible drugs and medical consumables across all the 44 Local Government Areas of the state.

He further highlighted the unwavering commitment of the Kano State Government, under the leadership of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, to strengthening the state's healthcare system and ensuring improved access to quality healthcare services for citizens.

Presenting the commodities, the Business Development Executive at Swipha Pharma Nigeria Limited, Esther John, stated that the donation was aimed at supporting the Agency's ongoing transformation efforts and consolidating the gains achieved in reviving DMCSA from its previously moribund state.

She explained that the gesture also reflected the company's appreciation to the Agency for the settlement of its outstanding obligations and its satisfaction with the cordial, transparent, and productive business relationship fostered under the leadership of Pharm. Gali Sule.

John expressed delight over the tremendous progress recorded by the Agency in recent years and commended its management for implementing reforms that have strengthened drug supply chain operations in Kano State.

She further assured the Director General and the entire management team of Swipha Pharma Nigeria Limited's readiness to sustain and expand collaboration with the Agency in support of improved healthcare service delivery.

The donated anti-malaria drugs, valued at approximately ₦500,000, are expected to complement the Agency's efforts to ensure the availability of essential medicines and strengthen healthcare interventions across Kano State.

Kano Health Commissioner Urges Mass Marriage Beneficiaries to Adhere to Health Guidelines

By Dorcas Adamu 

The Kano State Commissioner of Health, Dr. Abubakar Labaran Yusuf, has called on prospective couples participating in the ongoing mass marriage programme to strictly adhere to health guidelines provided by experts, and comply with the spiritual guidance offered by the Hisbah Board.

The Commissioner made the call while supervising the medical screening exercise for the 3,000 beneficiaries, currently taking place at the Kano State Agency for the Control of AIDS (KSACA).

Addressing the prospective couples, Dr. Abubakar Labaran Yusuf emphasized the importance of the medical screening and counseling process in ensuring healthy and successful marriages. He urged the beneficiaries to take the exercise seriously and make the most of the opportunity provided by the government.

He further informed the participants that all medical tests and counseling services associated with the programme are being provided free of charge, noting that the Kano State Government, under the leadership of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, has supplied all the necessary medical consumables required for the exercise.

The Commissioner reaffirmed the government's commitment to promoting the health and well-being of citizens through initiatives that support family stability and disease prevention.

Dr. Abubakar Labaran Yusuf also commended the management of KSACA, led by its Director General, Dr. Usman Bashir, for what he described as a well-organized and efficiently coordinated screening exercise.

The medical screening exercise includes tests for HIV, Hepatitis, genotype compatibility, sickle cell disease, and syphilis. Female beneficiaries also undergo pregnancy testing as part of the comprehensive health assessment designed to ensure informed and healthy marital unions.

The mass marriage programme is aimed at supporting eligible couples while ensuring that necessary health and counseling requirements are met before marriage, thereby contributing to healthier families and communities across Kano State.