By Musa Ubandawaki, Sokoto

SOKOTO — The Sokoto State Government has convened its 8th State Council on Health Meeting, positioning itself at the forefront of efforts to accelerate Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in Nigeria.

The high-level meeting, organised by the State Ministry of Health in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), brought together key stakeholders to review progress and strengthen policy direction under the health component of the state’s 9-SMART Innovation Agenda.

Presiding over the session, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Faruk Umar Abubakar, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to expanding access to quality and affordable healthcare services.

He noted that the reforms align with the vision of Governor Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto to build a more inclusive and responsive healthcare system.

Discussions at the meeting focused on practical pathways to achieving UHC, with emphasis on strengthening primary healthcare, improving service delivery, and ensuring equitable access for vulnerable populations.

Speaking on behalf of the National Council on Health, Mrs. Serah Pemida commended Sokoto State for what she described as “remarkable strides” in health sector reforms, noting that the resolutions adopted are aligned with federal policy frameworks.

She said the state’s proactive approach reflects a strong commitment to implementing nationally coordinated reforms while adapting them to local needs.

Also speaking, Dr. Nonso Agbosi of the Federal Ministry of Health Nigeria described Sokoto as a trailblazer, noting that it is the first state in the federation to convene its State Council on Health meeting.

“Sokoto has shown leadership and initiative in driving reforms at the sub-national level. This is the kind of coordination needed to achieve nationwide health goals,” he said.

Stakeholders emphasised the need for sustained collaboration among state governments, federal authorities, and development partners to achieve UHC targets.

The partnership with UNFPA is expected to strengthen maternal and reproductive health services, while supporting policy implementation and capacity building in the state’s healthcare system.

The meeting ended with renewed commitments to policy execution, resource mobilisation, and monitoring mechanisms to ensure improved health outcomes for citizens.

Observers say Sokoto’s approach could serve as a model for other states in advancing universal health coverage and improving healthcare delivery nationwide.