By Uzairu Dauda:
The Emir of Dass, Alhaji Usman Bilyaminu Othman, has described the intervention of Global Affairs Canada (GAC) as a strategic remedy for sustainable development, improved security architecture, strengthened healthcare delivery, and job creation across Bauchi State.
The monarch made the remarks while receiving a delegation from GAC alongside representatives of UNICEF, MEDA, Plan International and other development partners at his palace in Dass.
As Chairman of the Bauchi State Emirate Committee on Health, the Emir emphasized that traditional rulers play a vital role in improving the lives of their people across all sectors of human development.
He noted that partnerships between governments and traditional institutions are essential for ensuring community acceptance of new policies and interventions, particularly in healthcare.
The Emir commended development partners for their sustained support in critical areas such as polio eradication, women’s empowerment, and youth skill acquisition.
He highlighted that health-focused interventions have encouraged greater acceptance of reproductive health services, contributing to improved child spacing and safer maternal outcomes.
He further urged the Canadian delegation to expand its intervention across Bauchi State to enhance healthcare services and deepen community impact.
According to him, GAC’s support has significantly reduced poverty levels, strengthened family cohesion, and contributed to lowering the number of out-of-school children in the state.
He pledged the continued commitment of traditional rulers to sustain effective partnerships that promote accessible and community-driven healthcare services.
Earlier the Commissioner for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Sani Muhammad Dambam, represented by Permanent Secretary Alhaji Dauda Yakubu Mahmoud, stated that GAC’s presence in Bauchi reflects its commitment to initiatives that directly improve the wellbeing of citizens.
He also commended the Emir of Dass for his leadership and dedication to advancing the health sector.
In his address, the Head of GAC’s delegation explained that their visit was aimed at strengthening partnerships to improve the lives of young people, women, and children in Bauchi State.
He noted that the state remains a major beneficiary of GAC interventions under Canada’s African Strategy and appreciated the cooperation of traditional institutions and the state government.
Similarly, the Chief of UNICEF Bauchi Field Office, Dr. Nuzhat Rafique, disclosed that GAC is supporting programs focused on adolescent rights, women’s empowerment, healthcare, education, entrepreneurship, and agriculture to build a productive generation of future citizens.
She said the team visited Dass to assess ongoing interventions and witness firsthand how young people are being empowered in various communities.
In his welcome address, the Executive Chairman of Dass Local Government Area, Alhaji Muhammad Jibo, acknowledged GAC’s long-standing support in agriculture, education, and healthcare.
He highlighted key initiatives such as the Mama2Mama program, adolescent reproductive health services, and Village Savings and Loans groups formed by MEDA Way Nigeria.
At Bundot village, GAC-supported programs by plan International are training young girls and boys on the eradication of gender-based violence through early reporting mechanisms to parents and security agencies.
Youth are also being trained in self-employment skills and financial literacy through savings and loan groups designed to promote economic independence.
During the delegation’s visit to Dot District Area, beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the Mama2Mama initiative, noting that it has helped reduce maternal mortality, increased antenatal care attendance, and encouraged more hospital deliveries.
Members of the Mama2Mama group explained that they conduct house-to-house visits to identify health challenges affecting women, refer them to appropriate health facilities, promote the use of multiple micronutrient supplements (MMS), and ensure full immunization of children.
The visit reaffirmed the shared commitment of traditional institutions, government authorities, and international development partners to improving health outcomes, empowering youth and women, and fostering sustainable development across Bauchi State.
