Kano government estimates 600,000–700,000 babies will be born in 2026, highlighting health worker deficit and plans to recruit more personnel
Kano State Government has projected that between 600,000 and 700,000 babies will be born in the state in 2026, citing a 3.5 per cent population growth rate based on 2006 census figures.
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The announcement was made over the weekend by Dr Mansur Mudi Nagoda, Executive Secretary of the Kano State Hospitals Management Board, during the maiden convocation of the Sardauna College of Health Sciences and Technology, a private health institution in Kano.
Dr Nagoda warned that the rapid population increase could overstretch the state’s already limited healthcare workforce and medical facilities, noting a deficit of approximately 4,000 professional health workers.
“Kano currently has a deficit of about 4,000 professional health workers,” he said, stressing the need for urgent intervention to ensure adequate healthcare delivery.
The executive secretary emphasised the importance of practical training in health institutions, noting that graduates must be equipped with the skills to meet the essential health needs of communities.
“Institutions must prepare graduates to deliver the services needed in our communities,” he said.
To address the shortfall, the Kano government announced plans to recruit additional health personnel, prioritising deployment to underserved areas such as Doguwa, Rogo, and Sumaila Local Government Areas.
“These new recruits will help bridge the manpower gap and improve healthcare delivery in communities that need it most,” Nagoda added.
The announcement follows concerns over previous lapses in healthcare services, including the death of Aishatu Umar at the Abubakar Imam Urology Centre, which was linked to medical negligence.
Following an investigation, senior medical professionals involved in the incident were suspended.
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Dr Nagoda’s disclosure highlights the urgent need to scale up healthcare capacity in Kano State to meet the demands of its growing population, as officials continue to plan interventions to improve service delivery.
