By Danhassan Abubakar
The African Health Budget Network (AHBN) has called for the establishment of a dedicated workstation for Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and Communities of Practice (CoP) at the newly constructed Bauchi State Primary Health Care Development Board (BSPHCDB) headquarters, as part of efforts to strengthen collaboration and accountability in the health sector.
The recommendation was made during a courtesy visit and facility tour of the new BSPHCDB headquarters in Bauchi by the AHBN Convener/Chief Executive Officer, Dr Aminu Magashi Garba. He was accompanied by the Co-Chairman of AHBN, Hon. Mohammed Usman, and the Bauchi State AHBN Focal Person, Dr Hassan Shuaibu Musa.
The AHBN delegation was conducted round the offices by the Director of Disease Control and Immunization, Dr Adamu Mohamed, who showcased key sections of the facility and highlighted its role in coordinating primary health care services across the state.
During the visit, Dr Magashi underscored the importance of providing a functional workspace within the BSPHCDB headquarters for NGOs and CoP members, noting that such a facility would enhance coordination, information sharing, and effective engagement between government and development partners, particularly in addressing immunization gaps and Zero Dose challenges.
Responding on behalf of the Executive Chairman of the Board, Dr Rilwanu Mohammed, Dr Adamu Mohamed expressed appreciation to AHBN for its sustained support to Bauchi State, especially in the areas of Zero Dose reduction, immunization financing, budget accountability, and sustainability initiatives.
Dr Adamu assured the AHBN team that the request for a dedicated NGO/CoP workstation would be formally conveyed to the Executive Chairman of the Agency for consideration and approval, reaffirming the Board’s commitment to strengthening partnerships that will improve primary health care delivery and immunization outcomes in the state.