Drugs availability in Kano jumps from 30% to 90%

The Kano State Drugs and Medical Consumables Supply Agency (DMCSA) reports a significant boost in drugs availability at government facilities, raising from 30 per cent to 90 per cent.

Director- General of the Agency, Pharm. Gali Sule, disclosed this on Thursday when executive members of New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) from Dakata Ward in Nassarawa Local Government Area paid him a courtesy call in Kano.

According to him, “years ago, if 10 drugs were prescribed to patient, they would only get three, now, patient can at least get nine out of 10.” he said

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Sule, attributed this progress to the state government’s dedication to revitalising the health sector and improving the overall welfare of kano residents.

He also noted that government- supplied drugs are now 40 per cent cheaper than those available in the open market, making healthcare more affordable for Kano residents.

The agency has also made significant financial strides.

Sule explained that the agency had paid off N800 million, representing 70 per cent of the N1.17 billion debt inherited from the previous administration.

He added that upon assuming office in July 2023, the agency was heavily indebted with outstanding payments exceeding N1.1 billion.

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“If all stockpiles were sold and available funds utilised, there is still a negative balance of N102 million.

However, “after 17 months of strategic financial management, the agency now has a value of N231 million as of December 2024,” he said.

Earlier, Malam Muhammad Ya’u, the organising Secretary of NNPP in Nassarawa Local government, commending the agency’s efforts and said they are at the Agency to support and work with the D-G for continued progress of Kano State.

Ya’u stated that this marks a significant step in stabilising Kano’s healthcare supply system and ensuring a better access to essential medical commodities.