The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in conjunction with Aliko Dangote Foundation (ADF), and Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) issued an award worth over 6 million USD to the Nigeria Governors Forum over their commitment towards Primary Health Care leadership deliveries in the country.
A statement by UNICEF Representative in Nigeria Cristian Munduate on 18 May 2023 revealed that Borno State was the overall champion in the inaugural Primary Health Care Leadership Awards, hence it was a remarkable achievement that is worth celebrating.
According to the statement, the Governors have made significant investments in Primary Health Care (PHC) in the area of transforming the lives of women, girls, and children across Nigeria. “The best-performing state in the country, Borno, will receive $700,000, a testament to the transformative power of its effective leadership and strategic investment in Primary Health Care (PHC).
“Zonal prizes go to Kwara for North Central, Jigawa for Northwest, Borno for Northeast, Ebonyi for Southeast, Rivers for South–South–SouthOndo for Southwest. The first runners-up in these zones are Bauchi, FCT, Zamfara, Abia, Edo, and Ogun. Each zone’s winner will be awarded $500,000, and the first runners-up in each zone will receive $400,000.
“The courage, vision, and dedication shown by the leadership in the winning states are truly inspiring.
“Their commitment to improving Primary Health Care has brought about a significant and positive impact on the lives of its constituents, particularly women, girls, and children. Borno State’s double victory underscores the power of strategic investment and collaboration in building a healthier future for Nigeria. I congratulate all the winners for their exemplary commitment to Primary Health Care.”
The award was hosted by a Nigeria philanthropists Aliko Dangote Foundation (ADF), and Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) aimed at enhancing governors’ commitment to human capital development to mobilize State resources, promote accountability, and foster innovation for gender-specific health outcomes.
