The Kaduna State Government has intensified efforts to improve primary healthcare services by extending the Open Government Partnership (OGP) framework to all 23 local government areas in the state.
The initiative was reaffirmed during a three-day orientation workshop for local government chairpersons and key stakeholders held in Kaduna.
Speaking at the opening session, the Commissioner for Health, Umma Ahmed, said meaningful improvements in healthcare delivery can only be achieved through governance systems that are transparent, inclusive, and accountable to citizens.
She explained that Kaduna State has remained active in Nigeria’s OGP programme through the implementation of State Action Plans, which have contributed to reforms in fiscal transparency, procurement processes, citizen engagement, and accountability systems.
Ahmed noted that local government areas play a critical role in primary healthcare delivery, as they represent the closest point of interaction between government and communities.
According to her, the extension of the OGP framework to the local level would improve transparency and enhance citizens’ access to information, while strengthening service delivery in the health sector.
The Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Mukhtar Ahmed, said the training is aimed at equipping participants with the practical knowledge required to establish Local Government OGP structures, including permanent dialogue platforms between government officials and civil society organisations.
He explained that these structures would support the development of Local Government Action Plans focused on improving governance and service delivery, particularly in the health sector.
Ahmed added that the initiative places strong emphasis on primary healthcare, describing it as the foundation of human capital development in the state.
He noted that improved governance systems would enhance healthcare financing, strengthen resource tracking, and ensure that investments translate into better health outcomes, especially for women and children.
Representing development partners, Anthony Shamang said the OGP framework provides a platform for strengthening community participation and ensuring that health services remain responsive to public needs.
He urged local government officials to adopt open governance principles to build trust and improve accountability in service delivery.
Also speaking, Ekanem Isichei, Deputy Director of Communications at the Gates Foundation, commended Kaduna State for engaging local government chairpersons in efforts to translate OGP principles into practical action, particularly in strengthening primary healthcare systems.
He emphasized that the success of the initiative would be measured not by policies or committees, but by improved service delivery and effective use of resources at healthcare facilities.
Isichei called on local governments to align budgets with clear health priorities, ensure regular tracking of public funds, and focus on measurable outcomes in primary healthcare delivery.
He encouraged participants to identify and address key service delivery and financing challenges within the next 12 months and to maintain public tracking of progress.
According to him, effective implementation at the local level would position Kaduna State as a model for accountable and results-driven governance in Nigeria’s health sector.
