NEMSAS engages Sokoto State to improve emergency medical services

NIGERIA—The National Emergency Medical Services and Ambulances System (NEMSAS) has held a crucial meeting with stakeholders in Sokoto State to enhance healthcare delivery.

The engagement, which included Sokoto State Commissioner for Health, Hajiya Balarabe Asabe, and other key stakeholders, aimed to strengthen rural emergency services and maternal healthcare transportation in the state.

Dr. Sa’idu Ahmad Dumbulwa, the National Coordinator of NEMSAS, emphasized the program’s commitment to improving access to emergency care.

Speaking during the meeting, he explained that the team visited Sokoto to collaborate with stakeholders, raise awareness, and build capacity.

He highlighted the importance of advocacy to educate communities about the significance of rural emergency services, particularly for maternal and newborn healthcare.

Addressing the state’s poor maternal and newborn mortality rates, Dr. Sa’idu stressed the need for collective efforts to improve outcomes.

“We are here to create demand for better healthcare services and change the narrative around maternal and newborn mortality. Saving the lives of pregnant women and their babies is a responsibility we all share,” he said.

Representing the state commissioner for health, the Ministry of Health’s Director of Administration, Ahmad Abdullahi Goronyo, reaffirmed Sokoto State’s commitment to supporting emergency healthcare initiatives.

He noted that the administration of Governor Ahmed Aliyu had already made significant strides in this area.

This includes training ambulance drivers across the state and establishing the Sokoto State Emergency Medical Services Ambulance System at the Specialist Hospital Sokoto.

Furthermore, the state government has provided ambulances to various hospitals and primary healthcare centers, reinforcing its dedication to improving access to emergency care.

Hajiya Asabe Balarabe assured stakeholders that the government would fully support achieving the program’s objectives.

The meeting brought together key players in the state’s healthcare system, including Dr. Bello Abubakar Attahiru, Executive Director of the State Hospital Services Management Board, Dr. Adamu Abubakar, Director of Medical Services, and several Chief Medical Directors.

Their discussions highlighted the importance of collaboration in addressing healthcare challenges and ensuring better outcomes for Sokoto’s residents.

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