Zamfara Reviews Health Sector Performance, Sets Sights on Universal Healthcare

The Zamfara State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to improving healthcare delivery through evidence-based planning, better resource allocation and stronger partnerships as it pushes toward achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

The pledge was made during the 2026 Joint Annual Review (JAR) Dissemination held in Gusau, where government officials, traditional rulers, development partners and healthcare professionals assessed the performance of the state’s health sector.

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nafisa Muhammad Maradun, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Alhaji Rilwanu Musa Zurmi, said findings from the review would help shape government policies, improve the allocation of resources and strengthen the implementation of healthcare programmes across the state.

She commended development partners, traditional institutions and frontline healthcare workers for their continued support in improving healthcare services for residents.

The commissioner also called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to address existing challenges and expand access to affordable, quality healthcare throughout Zamfara State.

The Emir of Kaura Namoda pledged the support of traditional institutions in mobilising communities to participate in government health programmes, stressing that community involvement remains essential to achieving better health outcomes.

Also speaking, the ministry’s Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp) Desk Officer, Dr. Abdullahi Sani Aliyu Wanzamai, explained that the exercise marked the second Joint Annual Review since the state adopted the SWAp Compact.

According to him, the review provides an opportunity to evaluate progress made since the 2025 baseline assessment, identify gaps in healthcare delivery and align investments with the state’s healthcare priorities.

At the end of the meeting, stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening partnerships and implementing strategies aimed at building a more efficient, inclusive and people-centred healthcare system in Zamfara State.