By Edward Oseghe
The Edo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to improving healthcare delivery and reducing maternal mortality through the World Bank-supported Immunization Plus and Malaria Progress by Accelerating Coverage and Transforming Services (IMPACT) Project.
Speaking during the second quarter review meeting of the IMPACT Project in Benin City, Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomhole, noted that the initiative—implemented by the Edo State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (EDSPHCDA)—is yielding tangible results in the state’s primary healthcare system.
According to Dr. Oshiomhole, “Ultrasound machines have been procured and distributed to Local Government Areas, and Skilled Birth Attendants have been engaged to support frontline workers in reducing maternal deaths. In addition, 61 Primary Health Centres (PHCs) are currently being upgraded across the 18 LGAs, with plans for commissioning soon.”
Executive Secretary of EDSPHCDA, Dr. Coulson Oahimire Osoikhia, emphasized the state’s partnership with the World Bank under the IMPACT Project, describing it as a strategic effort by the Senator Monday Okpebholo-led administration to enhance healthcare infrastructure and services.
“The project is designed to deliver quality healthcare and improve access, especially for maternal and child health,” he said.
Also speaking, Dr. Idemudia Osayomore, Program Manager of the IMPACT Project, highlighted key milestones including the upgrade of 61 health facilities and the provision of free antenatal care, deliveries, family planning services, health education, malaria testing and treatment at 146 supported facilities.
He noted that routine immunization for children under five is ongoing, and free Mama Kits are being distributed to new mothers in supported centres.
“Our core objective is to reduce maternal and child mortality, strengthen primary healthcare delivery, and increase service utilization across Edo State.
“This quarterly data review allows us to assess our progress, identify challenges, and map out the way forward,” he said.
The meeting brought together stakeholders from the Edo State Ministry of Health, Edo State Health Insurance Scheme (EDOHIS), National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Medical Officers of Health, technical partners, EDSPHCDA staff, and the IMPACT Project Implementation Unit.
