Kebbi State Government Coronavirus Preparedness

Since the spread of the dreaded coronavirus infection to Nigeria, the Kebbi state Government under the able leadership of HE Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu has taken various steps to strengthen its health system in order to protect residents.

As advised by public health specialists, and approved by the Nigerian Center for Disease Control, the state designated Isolation Center is at Kebbi Medical Centre, Kalgo. The isolation facility has 20 beds currently which can be increased as required. All support required to treat patients such as oxygen, intravenous drugs, nebulizers and a stand by ambulance have been provided. Suspected cases will be managed there with additional expert support from staff of Federal Medical Center Birnin Kebbi.

In the unlikely event, it is required, a state of intensive care unit including mechanical ventilation exists in Sir Yahaya Memorial Hospital, Birnin Kebbi. To further strengthen the state workforce, Four Kebbi State Nurses are currently undergoing a 4 week internship training at the National Hospital Abuja, Intensive Care Unit. This is to expose them to standard intensive care environment.

Some other Coronavirus preparedness measures taken by the state include:
- Setting up Task Force
- Aggressive awareness and enlightenment campaign on ways to avoid infection
- Dissemination of Emergency Contact numbers
- Closure of educational institutions and civil servants on GL 1-12
- Convening an urgent Economic meeting with all Commissioners, LG Chairmen, Emirs, Civil Society, Religious bodies etc
- Payment of Salaries as due
- Payment of Leave Bonus for Grade level 1-6
- Closure of Border compliance
- Release of funds to Local Governments for campaign
- Mobilization of Emergency Drugs and other support needed
- Entry point screening.

Signed:
YAHAYA SARKI
Special Adviser (SA) to Kebbi State Governor
2/4/2020