By Abdul Jelil Adebayo
In public service, transformative leadership often attracts attention and criticism, yet it is this very determination to break from the norm that drives change. The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), under the stewardship of Minister Nyesom Wike, has ushered in a new era of reforms aimed at enhancing governance and service delivery across the Mandate Secretariats.
Among the appointees spearheading these reforms is Dr. Baba-Gana Adam, the Permanent Secretary of the Health and Environment Secretariat. Dr. Adam’s appointment underscores the administration’s commitment to professionalism, accountability, and progress, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Revamping the Health Sector
Since his assumption of office, Dr. Baba-Gana Adam has shown unwavering dedication to reshaping the health sector in the FCT. His proactive leadership has reinvigorated key initiatives and introduced reforms designed to improve healthcare delivery at all levels.
One notable achievement under his leadership is the revival of the Drug Revolving Fund monthly meetings, which had been dormant for years. This effort ensures the availability of essential drugs in healthcare facilities while improving transparency in fund utilization.
Additionally, the secretariat has revisited and enforced technical committees, streamlining operations and ensuring alignment with strategic goals. These reforms aim to create a sustainable framework for decision-making and service delivery.
Primary Healthcare as a Cornerstone
Recognizing that primary healthcare is the foundation of any effective health system, Dr. Adam has prioritized the restructuring of the FCT Primary Health Care Board. He has charged staff to uphold diligence and professionalism, emphasizing that the board’s success depends on its workforce.
In line with this, the administration is actively addressing challenges in grassroots healthcare delivery, including funding, infrastructure, and capacity-building. The goal is to establish a robust primary healthcare system that meets the needs of FCT residents, particularly in underserved communities.
Driving Excellence in Healthcare Services
The secretariat, under Dr. Adam’s leadership, has made strides in enhancing secondary and tertiary healthcare services. Key reforms include:
• Improved funding mechanisms to ensure the sustainability of health programs.
• Implementation of the Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF), which has bolstered staff morale and improved success rates in postgraduate medical training.
• Expansion and modernization of healthcare facilities, ensuring a conducive environment for both patients and healthcare workers.
• Continuous training and development of the health workforce to build capacity and improve service quality.
A Legacy of Competence and Dedication
Dr. Baba-Gana Adam’s extensive public service experience spans over three decades, encompassing roles in logistics, project evaluation, and city management. As a former Director of Outdoor Advertisement and Signage, he demonstrated exceptional leadership, earning multiple accolades for his contributions to urban renewal and public service.
His track record in social advocacy, particularly in tuberculosis eradication, further highlights his commitment to public health. As the Chair of Stop TB Partnership Nigeria, he championed initiatives to improve access to healthcare for vulnerable populations.
A Progressive Vision
Collaborating with Mandate Secretary Dr. Adedolapo Ayokunle Fasawe, Dr. Adam is building a forward-looking health sector in the FCT. Their combined efforts aim to redefine healthcare delivery, aligning with Wike’s vision of a progressive FCT where residents have access to quality and affordable healthcare services.
Renewed Hope for FCT Residents
Minister Nyesom Wike’s decision to prioritize competence in selecting Permanent Secretaries is yielding tangible results. The health sector’s transformation under Dr. Adam is a testament to what visionary leadership can achieve.
These reforms signify a renewed hope for the residents of the FCT, promising a brighter future where healthcare is accessible, efficient, and inclusive. As the administration continues to deliver on its mandate, it is setting a precedent for governance rooted in service, accountability, and progress.
*Abdul, a media consultant, wrote in from Abuja via abduljelil2001@gmail.com