Sokoto State Recruits 1,500 Nurses to Enhance Rural Health

Sokoto State Governor Ahmad Aliyu announced the recruitment of 1,500 nurses and midwives to improve healthcare delivery, particularly in underserved rural communities. This initiative is part of a broader effort to address the shortage of skilled health personnel outside urban centers.

The governor disclosed this plan during the 8th Sokoto State Council on Health, highlighting the introduction of a two-year mandatory rural service policy aimed at ensuring equitable distribution of healthcare workers across the state. Additionally, the government plans to recruit an extra 2,400 community health workers in collaboration with the National Health Authority to strengthen primary healthcare services.

Aliyu acknowledged existing gaps in health indicators and emphasized the need to improve human resources in health to tackle maternal and child health challenges. The newly recruited health workers will receive incentives, including a 10 percent rural allowance to boost morale and retention.

The initiative has been commended as a significant step towards improving access to skilled healthcare in hard-to-reach areas.