UNICEF Applauds Bayelsa as “Champion of Healthcare Delivery” During High-Level Visit to Yenagoa
By Passman Akpos
Bayelsa State recorded another major endorsement in its health sector reforms yesterday as the UNICEF Country Representative in Nigeria, Ms. Wafaa Saeed, paid a high-level courtesy visit to Government House, Yenagoa. The visit, undertaken with a delegation of senior UNICEF officials, focused on strengthening ongoing collaborations and assessing the state’s progress in healthcare delivery.
Receiving the delegation on behalf of the State Government, Deputy Governor Sen. Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo expressed satisfaction that UNICEF’s country representative is fully abreast of Bayelsa’s health programmes—particularly in routine immunization, maternal care, and primary health facility revitalization.
According to the Deputy Governor, Ms. Saeed’s field observations at selected health centres, coupled with spontaneous conversations with mothers and caregivers, reaffirmed the “encouraging reports” UNICEF has consistently shared about Bayelsa’s rising immunization coverage and improved grassroots health outcomes.
He noted that UNICEF’s description of Bayelsa as a ‘champion of healthcare delivery’ and a ‘shining spot’ in Nigeria stands as a significant validation of the state’s investments in primary healthcare.
> “For us, the best way to respond to commendations is to double down on our efforts,” Ewhrudjakpo stated. “Health is a top priority for this administration, and we are committed to doing even more for our people.”
The Deputy Governor revealed that the government is already reviewing the State Primary Healthcare Board Law to further strengthen the system, sustain the current funding model, and expand it to include stronger private-sector participation—particularly from companies operating within the state.
He emphasized that the administration remains focused and undistracted in its mission to advance healthcare delivery, noting that the path toward improved wellbeing of Bayelsans is “clear and unwavering.”
Ewhrudjakpo concluded with a reaffirmation of the government’s commitment to public health advancement, adding:
> “As a government, we know where we are going, and nothing will distract us from delivering quality healthcare to our people. God bless Bayelsa State.”
