In a significant step toward improving healthcare delivery, the Gombe State Government has officially commissioned a new primary healthcare centre in Gurma Village of Balanga Local Government Area, reaffirming its commitment to accessible and quality medical services across the state.
A statement signed by Jack A.Tasha,Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Media and Publicity,(Deputy Governor’s Office) said the facility was commissioned by the Deputy Governor, Manassah Daniel Jatau,Ph.D,on behalf of Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya.
The health centre, strategically located at the heart of Gurma—hometown of the deputy governor—is part of the administration’s initiative to provide two functional clinics in each of the state’s 114 wards, bringing the total number of primary healthcare centres to 228.
Speaking during the commissioning, the deputy governor emphasised that healthcare remains a top priority of the administration, second only to security. He noted that the facility is designed to serve all manner of people irrespective of political or religious affiliations, stressing that access to healthcare is a fundamental right.
He urged members of the community to take full advantage of the services provided while safeguarding the facility against vandalism. He also encouraged a culture of maintenance to ensure its longevity. Additionally, he advised residents to seek proper medical attention rather than attributing illnesses to superstition, witchcraft, or personal rivalries.
According to him, the establishment of 228 health centres across the state aligns with modern governance principles aimed at bringing essential services closer to the people. He congratulated the people of Gurma and encouraged them to embrace farming activities as the rainy season begins.
In a remark delivered by the Executive Secretary of the State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr. Shuaibu Abdulrahman, on behalf of the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Habu Dahiru,he explained that the project originated from the governor’s vision to ensure equitable healthcare distribution across all wards.
He revealed that the newly commissioned centre is equipped to provide key services including antenatal care, immunisation, and delivery services. The facility also boasts an 11-bed capacity and staff quarters to support healthcare personnel.
The Chairman of the Governing Board of the State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr. Yau Kashere, described the project as a clear demonstration of the administration’s dedication to quality healthcare. He also commended the deputy governor for his contributions to national service as a customs officer, and his continued commitment to community development.
In their goodwill messages, the Chairman of Balanga Local Government Council, Hon. Ibrahim Salihu Jatau, alongside traditional rulers including Bala Waja, Mohammed Danjuma Mohammed, Folo Dadiya Alhaji Abdulkadir Adamu Abubakar, and Dr. Maryam Abubakar, expressed appreciation to the state government for prioritising the health needs of the people. They called on residents to utilize and protect the facility.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by top government officials, including the Commissioner for Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Dr. Barnabas Malle; Commissioner for Trade, Industry and Tourism, Alhaji Nasiru Aliyu Mohammed (mni); Permanent Secretary, Deputy Governor’s Office, Mrs. Larai Maigari; as well as representatives from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Corp Commander Samson Kaura and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Gombe Command.
The event was further made lively by colourful cultural performances from the Waja cultural dance troupe, adding a touch of tradition to the historic occasion.
