BY DAYO JOHNSON
AKURE—THE World Bank yesterday, said the establishment of the Abiye (Safe) Motherhood programme by the Ondo State Government has not only placed the state in an exalted position in Nigeria, but also shown that Africans could achieve success in the health sector given the right environment.

The World Bank team, led by Dr Dinesh Nair, a senior health specialist, said this while on a courtesy call on the Ondo State Governor, Dr Olusegun Mimiko in Akure yesterday .

Nair said the state had attained a leadership position in maternal and child health not only in Nigeria but has become a benchmark and a reference point in Africa.

He described the Mother and Child Hospital constructed by the Mimiko-led administration less than two years ago as one of the most dynamic and pro-active health facilities in the country.

Responding, Governor, Olusegun Mimiko, thanked World Bank for its support towards improving the quality of lives of the people, especially in the areas of health and infrastructure.

The governor noted that his administration would continue to partner the World Bank with a view to transforming the socio-economic landscape of the state.

He paid tribute to the out-going Country Director of the Bank, Mr Onno Rhul for having a special interest in the development of the state.