The Bayelsa State Commissioner for Information, Orientation, and Strategy, Hon. Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, has praised the Global Alliance for Vaccines & Immunisation (GAVI), UNICEF, and other local and international healthcare partners for their significant contributions to healthcare development in the state. She made these remarks while delivering a goodwill message at the Primary Healthcare Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Review Initiative, an event organized by the Bayelsa State Government in collaboration with healthcare partners, held at the Chief DSP Alamieyeseigha Banquet Hall in Yenagoa.
Hon. Koku-Obiyai emphasized the importance of continually improving healthcare facilities as a measure of enhancing the overall well-being of the population. She expressed optimism that ongoing healthcare progress in the state would further improve the quality of life for its people.
In his opening address, the State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Seiyefa Brisibe, welcomed the dignitaries and expressed satisfaction with the critical role played by GAVI, UNICEF, and other partners in the state’s healthcare delivery. He commended the progress made in immunization coverage, which has increased from 54% to 73%, as well as the training of healthcare staff and the provision of ambulances.
Prof. Brisibe also outlined further steps in the partnership, such as the training of nurses at all primary healthcare centers (PHCs) and the renovation and upgrading of 20 centers to Tier 2 facilities by the end of the year. He noted that the three-year initiative has made significant strides in improving healthcare delivery and access, particularly in immunization, service delivery, and leadership within the healthcare sector.
The representative of the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHDA), Mr. Okechukwu Christian, also spoke, praising the Bayelsa State Government for its strong leadership, which has enabled the successful partnership between the state government, GAVI, and UNICEF. He urged the state to continue fulfilling its commitments outlined in the MOU.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including the Executive Secretary of the Bayelsa State Primary Healthcare Board, Dr. Appah Williams Weri; HRM King Bubaraye Dakolo, the Ibenanawei of Ekpetiama Clan and Chairman of the Traditional Rulers Council; Head of Service Barr. Mrs. Biobelemoye Charles Onyema; Local Government Area Chairmen; representatives from the Nigeria Governors’ Forum; Permanent Secretaries; business leaders; and members of the general public.
