By Hajara Usman
The Emir of Funakaye in Gombe State, Alhaji Yakubu Kwairanga, has bestowed the traditional title of “Garkuwan Lafiyar Funakaye” (Health Champion), on Dr Bolanle Oyeledun, the Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for Integrated Health Programs (CIHP).
The Emir announced the title during a dinner organised by CIHP to mark the conclusion of its 17 years of service in Gombe.
He described the honour as a token of appreciation and recognition of Dr Oyeledun’s unwavering commitment to improving healthcare for the people of Funakaye, Gombe, and the nation at large.”This title is not merely an honor, but also a responsibility. It is a call to continue your noble work, to lead by example, and to constantly remind you of the trust placed in you,” Kwairanga stated.
In her welcome speech, Dr. Bolanle Oyeledun expressed her gratitude to the traditional rulers for their support in allowing CIHP to operate within their communities.
She also acknowledged the contributions of all stakeholders, noting that achieving HIV epidemic control in the state would not have been possible without their cooperation.
The District Head of Baule in Tula Chiefdom, Kaltungo Local Government Area of Gombe, who is also a health professional, praised CIHP for building local capacity and equipping hospitals with essential tools.
He highlighted the significant reduction in HIV-related deaths in Gombe, attributing this to CIHP’s efforts in making antiretroviral treatment accessible, which helped bring down the HIV prevalence rate from 8.3 cent to 1.3 per cent.
Our correspondent reports that CIHP also presented awards during the event, including an Exemplary Leadership Award to Governor Inuwa Yahaya, a Public Service Award to the Gombe Ministry of Health, and a Community Health Advancement Award to the Gombe State Primary Health Care Development Agency, among other honourees.
