By Joy Salami
The Kogi State Ministry of Health, has inaugurated the Integrated Sustainable Health Supply System Steering and Technical Committees for the Kogi State Drugs and Medical Supplies Management Agency (KSDMSMA).
The move aims to strengthen drug distribution, ensure accountability and improve access to affordable medicines across the state.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adams Abdulazeez, said the committees were established in line with national requirements for effective drug management.
He explained that the Steering Committee, which he chairs, and the Technical Committee will oversee coordination, advocacy, monitoring and sanctions.
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Dr. Abdulazeez said the committees’ work will ensure the availability of quality, affordable drugs across public health institutions, from primary to tertiary facilities.
He described the inauguration as a “new beginning” for the agency and assured that the health sector is committed to delivering on Governor Usman Ododo’s promises to improve healthcare in the State.
The agency’s Executive Secretary, Pharmacist Salamat Ibrahim, said the committees will directly benefit citizens by ensuring uniform drug pricing in Government-owned hospitals. She added that they will prevent diversion of drugs, enforce compliance with standard operating procedures and sustain affordable costs.
According to her, the Steering Committee comprises heads of health institutions, while the Technical Committee includes directors from the State Ministry of Health, the Hospital Management Board, tertiary institutions and primary healthcare.
She emphasised that the Technical Committee will recommend sanctions for erring personnel, and the Steering Committee will enforce them to ensure compliance.
Pharmacist Ibrahim expressed optimism that the initiative will usher in greater transparency, accountability and sustainability in drug supply management in Kogi State.
Stakeholders said the inauguration marks a turning point in the state’s health sector and is expected to improve efficiency in drug distribution and strengthen healthcare delivery for residents.
