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Jigawa to upgrade 30 health facilities with N2.9b-Official
The Jigawa Government is to spend N2.9 billion to upgrade 30 health facilities in the state.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr Muhammed Kainuwa, made this known during the opening of bids for the award of contract for the projects in Dutse on Tuesday.
Kainuwa said the amount would be spent on the construction of midwifery quarters, wall fence, water and solar power supply in facilities across 30 constituencies in the state.
He explained that the gesture was aimed at improving quality healthcare delivery and welfare of health workers in the state.
“It is our intention to provide a conducive atmosphere for our teeming health workers, especially those working in remote areas, through provision of accommodation, portable water supply and lighting system,” he said.
The commissioner added that it was also to ensure that health facilities provided 24 hour service to people of the state.
“There is no way we can achieve 24-hour service without accommodation, water and light, so that’s why we are providing all these in the our health facilities,” the commissioner added.
Kainuwa said that the bid documents would be subjected to series of technical and financial scrutiny by a team of professionals to evaluate them.
This, he said, is to ensure that the bid documents meet all other criteria.
“As regards execution of the projects by successful bidders, it is imperative to bring to their notice that the state ministry of health is very strict on the agreement signed with contractors on the contract award.
“Therefore, any deviation without due approval from relevant authority may lead to unfavorable consequences,” he warned.
The commissioner advised the successful bidders to be very critical with conditions provided in the contract agreement, particularly time frame and quality of work.
“It may interest the bidders to also note that payment of certified work done follows state government processes and procedures.
“The process of payment documents is not cumbersome as far as the contractor fulfilled all necessary obligations for the payment,” the commissioner assured.
He assured the public of the government’s resolve to upgrade the 281 health facilities in the state. (NAN)
The Controller General of the Federal Fire Service, Abdulganiyu Jaji, has placed fire service personnel on red alert to ensure swift response to emergencies during the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations.
Jaji also urged Nigerians to adopt fire safety measures, particularly while cooking, to prevent avoidable incidents during the festive period.
In a statement issued on Saturday in Abuja, the fire service boss advised against leaving cooking unattended and emphasized the need to store gas cylinders outside kitchens and keep matches away from children.
“These safety measures are crucial in preventing fire outbreaks, especially during a period when many people travel, increasing the risks of fuel tanker accidents,” he said.
He added that all fire service commands and zones across the country have been placed on high alert to respond promptly to emergencies.
“I urge citizens to familiarize themselves with the contact details of their local fire service units for quick intervention in case of any fire incident,” Jaji stated.
The fire chief also stressed the need for fuel tankers and other articulated vehicles transporting flammable materials to be fitted with onboard cameras to enhance safety.
“Many tankers on Nigerian roads still fail to meet modern safety standards. These substandard vehicles contribute to rising accident figures, leading to loss of lives and property and leaving many families in distress,” he said.
Jaji noted that modern tankers come with features such as anti-rollover systems, anti-spill devices, and onboard cameras to monitor drivers’ behavior, which help in preventing road crashes.
“The continued use of substandard tankers without these safety features remains a major risk,” he warned.
While acknowledging the financial burden of replacing old fleets, Jaji suggested an alternative approach—installing onboard computers to monitor driving patterns, speed, and nighttime movements.
“Although the complete replacement or retrofitting of tankers with modern safety devices like anti-skid systems, speed limiters, and automatic emergency braking remains a priority, government agencies responsible for enforcing these measures are working to address the issue. Over time, we are confident that these improvements will be implemented,” he assured.
MultiChoice Nigeria has announced that the tenth edition of the Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) reality show will begin soon.
In an Instagram post on Saturday, the organisers revealed that the audition process for this edition will differ from previous ones.
Unlike past seasons, where aspiring contestants auditioned virtually, those vying for a spot in the 10th edition will have to audition in person.
However, the premiere date for the new season and the audition locations has not been disclosed.
“This time, it’s all about showing up and being you. Ready to shine? Get ready your moment is closer than you think! Season 10 is coming,” the post reads.
The reality TV show first introduced online auditions in its fourth season in 2019.
At the time, the option was created for those who couldn’t attend the physical auditions held earlier.
Since then, the organisers have maintained virtual auditions, adding different twists with each edition.
In the last season, contestants were required to audition in pairs.
At the last edition, Kellyrae defeated other housemates to win the grand prize of N100 million.
The feat also sees him become the first married person to win the show.
As the winner, he went home with a cash prize of N60 million, a new car among others.
The First Lady, Remi Tinubu, has described her husband, President Bola Tinubu, as a man of courage in a terse message to celebrate his birthday.
President Tinubu clocked 73rd on Saturday.
“I rejoice and thank God Almighty for His faithfulness in your life over the years.
I celebrate your courage, strength, and resilience that have all contributed to who we both are today,” the First Lady wrote.
“May you live long, in divine health, joy, peace and prosperity. Happy Birthday, Mr. President…My Knight in Shining Armor”.