Borno State Hires 2,000 Health Workers in Two Years

The Borno State Government says it has hired almost 2,000 health workers in the last two years. This move aims to tackle staff shortages and boost healthcare delivery in the state.

Saleh Kaza, the Executive Secretary of the Borno State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (BOSCHMA), shared this information during an interview with reporters on Monday in Maiduguri.

Mr Kaza noted that bringing in doctors, nurses, and other health professionals has helped fill gaps in the state’s healthcare system. He stated, “Although more personnel were still required to meet the growing population’s needs.”

He mentioned that the agency’s contributory healthcare scheme has raised the demand for health services, especially in the formal sector programme for state civil servants.

The agency is focused on improving healthcare facilities. This will help ensure that those enrolled can access affordable and quality medical services.

Mr Kaza also mentioned that the state government is investing in training more health professionals through medical and nursing schools. This is part of a plan to provide a long-term solution to the manpower issue.

He pointed out Kashim Ibrahim University and other health training institutions as key sources for future medical workers. He is hopeful that graduates from these institutions will strengthen the workforce in the next two to three years.

Additionally, he stated that two new colleges of nursing are expected to start admitting students soon. Existing institutions are also increasing their student intake to boost the number of qualified health professionals in the state.

Despite these efforts, Mr Kaza said staff shortages are still a major concern. This is especially true given the rising number of people needing healthcare, including those in the state’s vulnerable groups programme.

He emphasized the importance of continued teamwork among the government, healthcare providers, and relevant agencies to tackle staffing and service delivery issues.

Mr Kaza praised Governor Babagana Zulum for backing the contributory healthcare scheme by consistently meeting the state’s subsidy commitments.

He said that ongoing investment in healthcare workers, infrastructure, and essential medicines is crucial for improving access to quality healthcare services throughout Borno.