UNICEF applauds Ekiti Gov’t for advancing maternal, child health

By Idowu Adebomi, Ado Ekiti

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has commended the Ekiti State Government for notable progress in strengthening healthcare delivery, particularly in the areas of maternal and child health.

The recognition was delivered during the 2024 Annual Health Sector Review Scorecard Dissemination Meeting held in Ado Ekiti on Friday.

The one-day assessment, organised by the Ministry of Health and Human Services in collaboration with UNICEF, evaluated the state’s performance across key health indicators and laid the groundwork for continued sectoral reforms.

Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr Oyebanji Filani, said the scorecard was the product of a rigorous review of health sector data aimed at measuring achievements and exposing gaps.

“This forum allows us to share performance data, acknowledge our progress, and identify where further efforts are needed. Strengthening partnerships is essential as we work to eliminate preventable deaths,” Dr Filani said.

He praised healthcare professionals and sector partners for their commitment to delivering essential services and called for sustained collaboration, particularly in underserved communities.

Speaking at the meeting, UNICEF South-West Health Specialist, Dr Ijeoma Agbo, acknowledged the state’s achievements and encouraged the government to intensify its reforms.

“The health indicators reveal measurable progress. Ekiti State is clearly heading in the right direction. We encourage all stakeholders to maintain this positive trajectory,” Dr Agbo remarked.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Mrs Olusola Gbenga-Igotun, described the scorecard as a valuable diagnostic tool for policymaking and service delivery, adding that the findings would inform future planning, budget allocation, and staffing decisions.

Also speaking were the Chairpersons of the State Primary Health Care Development Agency and the Hospitals Management Board, Dr Funke Ogunbunmi and Dr Austine Ibikunle, who both praised Governor Biodun Oyebanji for what they described as impactful interventions in the health sector.

They noted that ongoing investment in infrastructure, workforce development, and service expansion had helped to significantly improve health outcomes across the state.

The review session was attended by stakeholders from the health sector, civil society groups, development partners, and donor agencies.