In a move to advance universal health coverage and provide accessible, quality healthcare to all citizens, especially the less privileged, Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has officially commissioned the Plateau State Drugs and Medical Commodities Management Agency (PS-DMCMA) Pharma-Grade Warehouse.
In a statement by the Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere, the Governor also launched the Plateau State Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (PLASEMSAS), a strategic initiative aimed at providing rapid healthcare response to emergencies, ultimately saving lives across the state.
Speaking at the event, Governor Mutfwang restated his administration's dedication to improving the well-being of Plateau citizens. He said the initiative, conceived in September 2023, has been successfully completed to bolster healthcare delivery in the state.
Governor Mutfwang reiterated, "My administration places a high value on access to quality and affordable healthcare, given its crucial role in enhancing the lives and living standards of our people. This new Pharma-Grade Warehouse will serve as a cornerstone of our efforts to build a sustainable healthcare infrastructure that will ensure the availability of essential medicines and vaccines across all the 17 Local Government Areas."
The state-of-the-art warehouse, equipped with cutting-edge technology and designed to meet global standards, includes key features such as a cold room capable of maintaining temperatures below -80°C, a modern forklift that can reach heights of 3.5 meters, pallets to ensure the efficient movement of medical supplies, a mini-quality control laboratory for preliminary pharmaceutical assessments, and a drug information center dedicated to monitoring adverse drug reactions and combating counterfeit medicines.
Governor Mutfwang further explained that the facility will streamline the management and distribution of pharmaceutical supplies across the state as part of steps towards addressing challenges related to supply chain management and ensuring timely healthcare delivery to even the most remote areas of Plateau State. He stressed that the facility stands as a symbol of what can be achieved through unity, a shared vision, and determination, and is a beacon of hope for a healthier future for all Plateau citizens.
Commissioning the Ambulance System, the Governor disclosed that six new ambulances were procured and delivered just last week. "The goal of PLASEMSAS is to provide a consolidated emergency medical service and ambulance system that delivers prompt, efficient, and accessible care at no cost within the first 48 hours of an emergency. This initiative aims to eliminate financial barriers during critical situations and ensuring that timely care is available to all," he said.
Governor Mutfwang expressed his deep gratitude to the key individuals and organizations who contributed to the successful realization of the projects, including the Supervising Minister for Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Mohammed Ali Pate, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ms. Kachollom S. Daju, mni; the National Coordinator of the National Product Supply Chain Management Programme (NPSCMP), Pharm. Celine Onunkwo; and international partners such as the Global Fund, which provided 85% of the funding, and Chris Wright, Country Director of USAID Global Health Supply Chain – Procurement and Supply Management (GHSC-PSM), for their unwavering support.
"We are equally grateful to UNICEF and Land Designs for their implementation efforts, and to Dr. Saidu Ahmed Dumbulwa, National Programme Manager of the National Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance Services (NEMSAS), for his invaluable contributions," Governor Mutfwang added.
Governor Mutfwang commended the Commissioner for Health, Plateau State, Dr. Cletus Bako Shurkuk and the Executive Secretary, PS-DMCMA, Pharm. Kim Jerry Bot, for their unique leadership and the harmonious working relationship in the health sector as well as putting the state on the map as a leader in healthcare initiatives.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Ms. Kachollom S. Daju, pledged the Ministry's continued commitment to extending healthcare services, particularly to rural communities in Plateau State.
Following the commissioning, Governor Mutfwang proceeded to inspect the Plateau Government Printing Press complex, located on Murtala Muhammad Way, Jos. Led by the Director General, Hon. Sunday B. Rogo. The Governor expressed his administration's commitment to overhauling the facility to enhance revenue generation for the state.
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