The Kano State Government has implemented robust measures to prevent the diversion of drugs and essential medical supplies across state-owned medical facilities in all 44 local government areas, News About Nigeria reports.
This initiative was disclosed by Gali Sule, Director General of the Kano State Drugs and Medical Consumable Supply Agency.
Sule said that these measures have led to an increase in the availability of drugs in public hospitals.
“We have enhanced transparency and accountability through our drug revolving funds policy,” Sule explained.
“Those responsible for medical stores, warehouses, or pharmacies must account for their transactions quarterly. We conduct review meetings every three months to ensure the supplies match the records, and any discrepancies are addressed with appropriate sanctions.”
He said that these efforts have resulted in an improvement in drug availability, rising from 30% to 90% over the past year.
“Where there is a gap, whoever is in charge, be he a storekeeper or pharmacist must be held responsible for the gap and other necessary sanctions to be taken, and I can confidently inform you, that we have improved our supply and availability of drugs in our hospitals rising from 30% to 90% within the last one year in office.”
Additionally, the agency, under the governor’s directive, has focused on sourcing high-quality, affordable drugs and medical consumables.
This initiative has effectively combated the issue of fake and substandard drugs in public hospitals.
Sule also noted that the agency’s partnership with reputable pharmaceutical suppliers ensures that only certified and genuine drugs, registered with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), are provided to hospitals.
He said that this partnership assures the public of the safety and efficacy of the medications available in state facilities.
Moreover, Sule revealed that the agency is exploring ways to prevent the diversion of public health commodities donated for free patient supplies.
