Sokoto Govt Approves Over ₦100m For HIV Test

The Sokoto executive council has approved over 100 million for the procurement of HIV test kits and essential drugs.

The decisions were reached at the Council’s meeting on Wednesday, reflecting the administration’s efforts to sustain HIV response services and upgrade health infrastructure serving thousands across the state.

While briefing journalists after the meeting, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Faruk Umar Abubakar, stated that the procurement was necessary following the withdrawal of international development partners who previously funded HIV/AIDS interventions in Nigeria and other African countries.

“We must avoid any disruption and ensure sustainability in treating HIV patients and continuing screening across Sokoto State.”

He added that to bridge the funding gap, the state council has approved one hundred million and sixty two thousand naira for the procurement of HIV test kits and essential drugs, aimed at meeting the treatment needs of infected patients and ensuring continuous screening so that more residents can know their status and help prevent further spread of the virus.

The contract according to him was awarded to Al- khairiyya Multi- Business Co.LtdGlobal Investment Limited, with the supply expected to be completed within three months, while a 30 percent mobilisation fee was approved to enable immediate commencement of work.

In a separate approval, the Council endorsed renovation, repairs and remodeling works for six general hospitals, following similar earlier approvals for nine hospitals where work is already ongoing.

The newly approved projects include General Hospital Yabo, General Hospital Shagari, General Hospital Sabon Birni and General Hospital Tangaza. Others are General Hospital Goronyo and Women and Children Hospital, Sokoto,

Dr Faruk noted that the renovation covers hospital complexes, staff quarters, and associated civil works. According to him all the six projects are expected to be completed within six months, with contractors receiving 30 percent mobilisation once due process is completed.