State governments across the three participating states have continued to demonstrate strong political commitment and ownership toward the UNICEF-supported Enhancing Leadership, Governance and Management Capacities (ELGMC) Project through active participation in the recently concluded stakeholders’ engagement workshops organized by DGI Consult.

The engagements brought together senior government officials, health sector leaders, development partners, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders to strengthen leadership and governance capacities for RMNCAH+N and GBV.

In Adamawa State, the Deputy Governor, Professor Kaletapwa George Farauta reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving healthcare delivery through stronger leadership, policy reforms, and accountability mechanisms, noting that effective governance is essential for building a resilient and people-centred healthcare system.

Similarly, the Honourable Commissioner for Health in Kwara State, Dr. Amina Ahmed El-Imam reiterated the administration’s commitment to strengthening healthcare systems and improving service delivery. Participants noted that the ELGMC project aligns closely with the state’s priorities in leadership development, accountability, evidence-based decision-making, and institutional strengthening.

Dr Amina Ahmed El-Imam, Honourable Commissioner for Health, Kwara State

In Sokoto State, the Commissioner for Health Dr. Faruk Umar Abubakar Wurno reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working with development partners to address gaps in maternal and child healthcare delivery and strengthen accountability within the health sector to improve service delivery and health outcomes.

Dr. Faruk Umar Abubakar Wurno, Honourable Commissioner for Health, Sokoto State

Across participating states, stakeholders acknowledged that strong leadership and effective governance are critical for addressing persistent health system challenges and accelerating progress toward universal health coverage. Discussions focused on improving leadership competencies, strengthening management systems, promoting accountability, and fostering collaboration across the health sector.