By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja
The Kogi State Ministry of Health, in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Health and development partners, has commenced the process of developing and harmonizing the state’s 2026 Annual Operational Plan (AOP) for the health sector.
Health Commissioner Dr. Abdulazeez Adams Adeiza, who inaugurated the session at Barcelona Hotel, Abuja, said the plan is aimed at improving the quality and accessibility of healthcare for citizens.
According to a statement by the Ministry’s Information Officer, Mr. Rotimi Odofin, the AOP will serve as a guiding document for operational activities, monitoring, and evaluation of the health sector.
Adeiza thanked President Bola Tinubu for increased federal support to health and commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for prioritizing healthcare. He also acknowledged former Governor Yahaya Bello for laying the foundation for the sector’s growth.
The commissioner assured participants of improved funding and urged renewed commitment to advancing healthcare delivery in the state.
At the technical session, Dr. Asiru Adamu of the National SWAp Office described the AOP as a key driver of state and national health policies. He encouraged creative strategies to avoid repeating past mistakes.
Director of Health Planning, Research and Statistics, Mr. Johnson Aieyedogbon, said Kogi was the first state to initiate an AOP as far back as 2016, describing the new effort as proof of sustained commitment to strengthening healthcare operations.
He explained that the Abuja venue was chosen to ensure uninterrupted focus for the week-long exercise.
Dr. Emmanuel Bola Jonah, Desk Officer for the SWAp approach, noted that the AOP is being developed in line with the state’s 2026 budget to ensure a progressive operational framework before the fiscal plan is finalized.
Partners at the meeting commended the state government for its continued support, describing the sector as more responsive under the current administration.