The national Coordinator of the Africa Health Budget Network (AHBN)Dr. Aminu Garba Magashi visited Bauchi State and led the Zero Dose Learning Hub (ZDLH) Community of Practice (CoP) on immunization budget accountability to a high-level advocacy meeting with the Speaker of the Bauchi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abubakar Y. Suleiman, and the Chairmen of the House Committees on Health and Appropriation.
During the meeting, Dr. Magashi expressed appreciation to the Bauchi State Government and the entire House of Assembly for passing and allocating a projected immunization budget of ₦872 million for 2025.
He also commended the government for releasing 100% of the allocated funds. However, he requested the Assembly to oversee the utilization of the funds and track the implementation of lifesaving immunization interventions, particularly in zero-dose Local Government Areas.
The Bauchi State AHBN Team Lead, in his remarks, requested the Assembly to ensure the integration of gender-sensitive issues and the state’s social protection interventions to promote gender mainstreaming in the state.
The Speaker, in response, thanked the Zero Dose Learning Hub Community of Practice and the Africa Health Budget Network (AHBN) for the visit and the development and presentation of the 2024 Immunization Financing Scorecard to him and other critical stakeholders in the state.
He assured the ZDLH of his continued support and commitment, particularly in oversight, release of funds, and tracking of released funds to the facility level.
He also appreciated the Chairmen of the House Committees on Health and Appropriation for their critical roles in ensuring a smooth budget preparation, defense, and passage.