From Abdullahi Adamu Gusau
Zamfara state Commissioner of Health, Dr. Aisha M.Z. Anka has suspended all medical outreach activities by unidentified non-governmental and individual organisations in the state.
The Commissioner has observed and expressed serious concern over how some unidentified individuals and non-governmental organisations conduct medical outreach activities in the state without the consent of the ministry.
Dr. Aisha M.Z. Anka made the statement in her office during management meeting with directors and other relevant officers.
According to a press release issued by the Information officer of the ministry, Bello Ibrahim Boko, the Commissioner said, the Executive Governor, Dr. Dauda Lawal has recently declared a State of Emergency on Health Sector and that measures were taken to tackle the deplorable situations of health institutions and activities in the state. She stressed that organisations or individuals who wishes to come to the rescue or support the state is a welcome development but should follow due process.
Dr. Aisha emphasised that the state government doesn’t hesitate to accept and welcome any organisation who is ready to support the state government in that direction but there are binded procedures to be followed which is contained in memorandum of understanding between an NGO/individual organisation with the state government before effecting any activity in the state.
Dr. Aisha explained that any organisation, individual or group wishing to conduct or embark on medical outreach in the state should contact the Ministry of Health for proper identification and seek for permission before going to the field.
