By Umar Faruk
Kaduna, Nigeria, April 07,2026(Series News Online) - The Maternal Accountability Mechanism in Kaduna Initiative (KADMAM) and the Alliance for Kaduna Accountability and Strategic Advocacy (AKASA Network) have called for increased health financing, improved budget performance, and stronger accountability in Nigeria's health sector.
In a joint statement issued on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, by Garba Muhammad, Co-Chair and Chairman of KADMAM & AKASA Network, and Dr. Suleiman Yanko, Secretary of KADMAM, the networks stressed the urgent need for accelerated action toward equitable, accessible, and people-centered healthcare. "Despite ongoing efforts, gaps in family planning, maternal, newborn and child health (FP/MNCH), and immunization coverage continue to drive preventable deaths, especially at the community level," the statement read.
The networks commended the Kaduna State Government for notable progress in strengthening the health system, including the upgrade of 255 Primary Healthcare Centres to Level-2 facilities and the establishment of 23 PHC Centres of Excellence across all LGAs. "Key achievements include the development of a pharma-grade KADHSMA warehouse to improve medicine availability," the statement noted.
The networks emphasized that increased budgetary allocation must be matched with timely releases, efficient utilization, and measurable outcomes, particularly for women and children. "We call for expanded investments in family planning, maternal and child health services, and intensified community sensitization on routine immunization," said Garba Muhammad.
Dr. Suleiman Yanko added, "The institutionalization of policies such as the Public Health Law and the Integrated RMNCAEH+N Strategy further demonstrates commitment to sustainable and accountable healthcare delivery."
The networks highlighted the critical role of traditional, religious, and community leaders in driving behaviour change and improving service uptake, and called for the structured inclusion of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in monitoring health sector resources to strengthen transparency and accountability.