Governor Nwifuru Questions UNICEF's Health Data Accuracy for Ebonyi State
In a significant development, Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru has raised concerns over the data collection and analyses conducted by the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) regarding the state's health system. During a meeting on Friday, Governor Nwifuru emphasized the need for more reliable data to drive effective interventions in the healthcare sector.
Call for Improved Data Collection Strategies
Governor Nwifuru urged UNICEF and other development partners to adopt proper data collection strategies. He highlighted that accurate decisions and interventions can only be made when data is collected and analyzed correctly. The governor specifically requested that agencies deploy manpower to all primary health care facilities in Ebonyi State to gather reliable information aimed at enhancing maternal and child health outcomes.
Addressing Critical Health Issues
In addition to data concerns, Governor Nwifuru endorsed UNICEF's calls for immediate action to end various health challenges in the state. These include:
- Open defecation leading to cholera outbreaks
- Poor immunization practices resulting in poliomyelitis
- Malnutrition among children
- Inadequate breastfeeding practices
The governor acknowledged the severe negative implications of erratic immunization and stressed that concrete steps must be taken to address this issue. He directed local government chairmen to prioritize immunization efforts and committed to constructing toilets in markets, schools, and other public places to combat open defecation.
UNICEF's Proposals and Praise for State Efforts
During the meeting, Miss Judith Leveillee, UNICEF Nigeria Chief of Field Services, outlined the organization's proposals, including the construction of 2.5 million latrines to eliminate open defecation and prevent cholera. She appealed for accelerated state action to prevent future outbreaks, noting that cholera has claimed over twenty thousand lives.
Miss Leveillee praised Governor Nwifuru's bold reforms in the health sector and his timely release of counterpart funding. She emphasized UNICEF's commitment to supporting vulnerable children, stating that the organization has contributed over one million dollars in less than three years and has partnered with entities like ALGON and the Identity Commission to ensure children's health and identity are protected.
She further explained that all necessary measures to strengthen healthcare have been implemented, underscoring the collaborative efforts to safeguard the well-being of Ebonyi's children.
