Monarch urges EU/UNICEF to engage traditional, religious leaders on projects in Kebbi

From Ahmadu Baba Idris, Birnin Kebbi

The Emir of Arugungu, Samaila Muhammad Mera has appealed to donor agencies: EU/UNICEF to engage more with traditional and religious leaders in their ongoing intervention projects in Kebbi State.
He made this call yesterday when the EU/UNICEF delegates paid him a courtesy visit in his Palace in Arugungu, adding that the involvement of the institutions will go a long way in achieving the aims and objectives of the interventions in the State.
The Royal Father who commended the efforts of the EU and UNICEF for the renovations of some healthcare Centers across the State, said the intervention has complemented the government’s efforts in healthcare service delivery.
“We hope they will extend the intervention because it has really helped the state most especially in outreach programmes, free drugs, renovations of the healthcare centers, supply of hospital equipment, and manpower.”
The Monarch also said that the donor agencies should also consider the possibility of constructing doctors and staff quarters in every healthcare center renovated across the 21 Local Governments in case of any health related emergency work.
“You see the construction of staff quarters will also support the health workers mostly for those that were on night calls. I am very grateful for the development because what we achieved in my emirate is just to say we are most grateful”.
He then emphasized on the need for the donor agencies to intensify their commitments towards involvement of the relevant stakeholders in the ongoing intervention projects in the State.
Our correspondent gathered that about 58 facilities worth about N1billion were renovated in both phase one and two across the 21 Local Governments of Kebbi State.
Also in his remarks, the Team leader Mallam Rabiu Musa who is the UNICEF communication Specialist, thanked the emir for his commitment and support to the development partners.
He assured him that the message will be passed across to ensure smooth working relationship with the government.