Dr. Afam Obidike, Anambra State Commissioner for Health, emphasized the pivotal role of the State Drug Management Agency (DMA) in achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) during a seminar on Drugs and Medical Consumables Management in Awka. The event, organized by the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria Anambra State Chapter in collaboration with UNIZIK Business School and the State Ministry of Health, provided a platform for discussing crucial strategies in healthcare management.
Dr. Obidike underscored the commitment of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration to prioritize healthcare in the state. He outlined the DMA’s mandate to oversee and regulate medication usage within the healthcare system, insurance plans, and government programs, emphasizing its potential to enhance patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.
Expressing gratitude to the organizers for inviting Dr. Muhammad Lawan Gana, Yobe State Commissioner for Health, and his team, Dr. Obidike highlighted the importance of learning from their experiences, both challenges, and successes. He reiterated the significance of collaboration and knowledge sharing in strengthening healthcare systems.
Dr. Lawan Gana commended Dr. Obidike for his dedication to healthcare improvement, citing the success of Niger state’s healthcare initiatives as a result of strong political support from their Governor.
Abdulaziz Garba Mohammed, Executive Secretary of Yobe State Drugs and Medical Consumables Management Agency, outlined their agency’s mandate to strengthen the state’s public health supply chain system, aligning with the goal of achieving UHC.
The seminar was attended by key figures including Dr. Obiageli Uchebo, Permanent Secretary of Anambra State Ministry of Health, Pharmacist Obum Madike, Director of Pharmaceutical Services, and Okwuchukwu Ojukwu, Director of the Central Store. Their presence underscored the collaborative efforts towards improving healthcare management and delivery in Anambra State.
