Katsina to get 24-hour healthcare in all wards — Governor Radda assures citizens, approves 15 ambulances, as 102 tricycle ambulances completed

Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has approved the procurement of 15 fully equipped conventional ambulances to strengthen emergency response services across the state.

The Governor announced this on Monday during an inspection of the tricycle ambulance assembly project at the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in Katsina.

Governor Radda said the initiative demonstrates his administration’s commitment to ensuring that all 361 wards in Katsina State have access to emergency healthcare services.

“We made a promise that every ward will benefit from this programme, and I am pleased with the steady progress recorded so far,” the Governor stated.

He disclosed that 102 tricycle ambulances have been completed, while work continues on the remaining units, noting that the project is moving steadily toward full completion.

“What we have seen today shows clear progress, and we are determined to ensure that every ward is fully covered,” Governor Radda said.

He announced that by 2026, all tricycle ambulances will be ready, ensuring that each ward has at least one functional Primary Health Care Centre operating 24 hours daily, supported with ambulances and basic diagnostic equipment.

The Governor explained that the tricycle ambulances will serve as referral vehicles, evacuating patients from primary health centres to secondary health facilities, particularly in rural and hard-to-reach communities.

He added that each tricycle ambulance is fitted with oxygen cylinders, patient beds, and essential first-aid kits to support emergency medical services.

“This intervention is about saving lives, and that is why we are taking it very seriously,” he said.

Governor Radda revealed that the newly approved 15 conventional ambulances will be strategically stationed along major roads across the state to respond swiftly to road accidents and other emergencies.

“With a simple call, an ambulance should arrive within five to ten minutes to evacuate victims to the nearest hospital,” the Governor stated.

He stressed that the state is investing in high-quality, well-equipped ambulances to strengthen emergency healthcare delivery and reduce pressure on secondary and tertiary health facilities.

The Governor disclosed that the state government is currently recruiting health personnel to address manpower gaps and support the planned 24-hour operations at primary health centres.

“You cannot run a 24-hour health facility without adequate manpower. That is why recruitment is ongoing,” he said.

Governor Radda reaffirmed that health, education, and agriculture remain the top priorities of his administration, describing healthcare as fundamental to productivity and development.

He commended the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs for its commitment to the project and appreciated the support of local government officials.

The inspection team included Chief of Staff Alhaji Abdulkadir Mamman Nasir, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affiars Hon.Bashir Tanimu Gambo, Special Adviser on Local Government Inspectorate Hon. Lawal Rufai Safana, Special Adviser on Chieftaincy Affairs Hon. Usman Abba Jaye, and the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, among other senior officials.