North-West states raise alarm over substandard private health institutions

The seven states in Nigeria's North West region have expressed deep concern over the proliferation of substandard private health institutions, warning that they pose a significant risk to the health and safety of citizens. Dr Abdullahi Kainuwa, Commissioner of Health for Jigawa State and Chairman of the North-West Commissioners’ Forum, made this statement at a stakeholders’ meeting held in Dutse, Jigawa State.

He emphasized that the forum is well aware of the illegal and substandard operations of these private health institutions, which they deem unacceptable.

The North-West Commissioners’ Forum has established a task force committee with the explicit mandate to ensure that every private health institution complies with the established rules and regulations governing their establishment. Dr Kainuwa stated that any institution failing to meet the required standards will face closure. This initiative is being implemented across all seven North West states.

He lamented that some of these institutions lack essential resources such as permanent premises, staff, laboratories, and other necessary equipment.

Dr Kainuwa highlighted the irony of a situation where the government does not have sufficient public schools to cater to the population, yet private institutions continue to operate without meeting the necessary standards. He stressed that these private schools must operate with integrity and transparency, living up to their name.

Furthermore, he warned regulatory agencies that if they issue approvals to such institutions without proper inspections, those responsible will face severe consequences, including potential job loss. He reiterated that the aim is not to hinder the operations of these institutions but to ensure they function in a safe and regulated manner, prioritizing the health and wellbeing of the citizens.