By Murtala Muhammad
Bauchi State Government has commenced a four-day cascade training for fifty-three Programme Officers and local government Monitoring and Evaluation Officers to enhance health sector planning for the 2026 Annual Operational Plan.
The initiative, under the Nigeria Healthcare Sector Wide Approach, SWAp, is aimed at improving coordination and delivery of health services across the state’s local government areas.
Acting SWAp Desk Officer in the state, Ibrahim Muhammad, said the training follows a national-level Training of Trainers, attended by three selected Programme Officers from Bauchi.
He explained that the participants are being equipped with tools and knowledge to develop a SMART and realistic Annual Operational Plan tailored to local health needs.
Ibrahim Muhammad reaffirmed the state’s commitment to aligning with national health priorities by investing in capacity building and systems strengthening at the grassroots level.
Technical Assistant to the Coordinating Minister of Health on SWAp, Dr Ashiru Abubakar noted the importance of realistic budgeting and timely fund releases.
He said such proactive engagement by states would ensure access to federal health interventions and lead to improved health outcomes for citizens across rural communities.