"Free Antenatal Care, Drugs for Pregnant Women, Children Under-5: Bauchi Gov't"

By Khalid Idris Doya

Bauchi, Bauchi State, Nigeria - September 7, 2025 (Series News Online)

The Bauchi state government has reaffirmed its commitment to providing free antenatal care, drugs, and medical services to pregnant women and under-5 children across the state. The state Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon. Usman Shehu Usman, made this known during a media tour of ongoing and completed healthcare projects initiated by Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed's administration.

During visits to the Primary Healthcare Centre in Konkyel, Darazo local government area, and the Model Primary Healthcare Centre in Dagauda, Dambam LGA, the commissioner assured that essential drugs, delivery kits, and other commodities had been stocked to ensure the success of the free medical programme.

Health officials at both facilities confirmed that free antenatal care and drug distribution were ongoing, with support from government funding. The officer in charge of the Dagauda centre, Tafida Hussaini, said the hospital now operates with improved infrastructure, solar power, and water supply, making it a referral point for patients from neighbouring local government areas.

"The hospital has been upgraded from a 30-bed to a 49-bed capacity, and we've seen increased patronage," Hussaini said. "We appeal for more manpower to meet the rising demand." Hussaini also noted that security had been strengthened with personnel provided by both the local government and the African Development Bank.

The state government urged residents to take advantage of the services, stressing its commitment to ensuring quality, accessible, and affordable healthcare for all. "We are committed to providing healthcare services that are accessible and affordable to all residents of Bauchi state," the commissioner said.

The government's initiative aims to reduce maternal and child mortality rates in the state, and improve overall healthcare outcomes. The upgraded healthcare facilities are expected to serve as a model for other healthcare centres in the state, providing essential services to thousands of residents.