North-West States Address Substandard Health Institutions

The seven states of the North West region of Nigeria have expressed serious concerns regarding the proliferation of substandard private health institutions, which they believe endanger the lives and wellbeing of citizens. Dr Abdullahi Kainuwa, the Jigawa State Commissioner of Health and Chairman of the North-West Commissioners’ Forum, made this announcement during a stakeholders’ meeting in Dutse, Jigawa State.

He revealed that the forum is aware of the illegal operations of these institutions and has formed a task force committee to ensure compliance with the established regulations for private health institutions. Dr Kainuwa emphasized that any institution failing to meet the required standards would be mandated to close.

He noted the unfortunate reality that some institutions lack permanent facilities, staff, and laboratories. The commissioner also indicated that regulatory agencies would be held accountable for issuing approvals without proper verification, warning that those responsible could lose their jobs.

He stressed the importance of adhering to regulations for the safety of the populace.