By Dr Musa Abdullahi Sufi
In the ongoing effort to address pressing health challenges in Katsina State, the appointment of dedicated individuals to key advisory roles is crucial. Among the many advocates for health development, Laila Ahmad has emerged as a tireless champion for the sickle cell community, making her an ideal candidate for a strategic role in Governor Umar Dikko Radda’s administration.
A Passionate Advocate for Health
Laila Ahmad’s work in supporting individuals with sickle cell disease has earned her widespread recognition and respect across the state. She has consistently demonstrated extraordinary commitment, working to improve awareness, access to healthcare, and support systems for patients and their families. Her grassroots initiatives have not only educated communities but also empowered individuals to take control of their health through genetic counseling, early diagnosis, and better disease management.
Her advocacy is deeply personal and compassionate, qualities that resonate with the ethos of Governor Radda’s administration, which has prioritized improving healthcare access and addressing critical health concerns in Katsina. Laila is presently the president of Sickle Cell Home of Katsina State.
Voices from the Community
The call for Laila’s appointment as a health adviser is backed by numerous voices from the community who have witnessed the impact of her work firsthand. Furthermore, The call has resonated deeply with many in Katsina, who have come forward to share their support.
Aisha Musa, a mother of a sickle cell patient, remarked that “Laila has been a lifeline for families like mine. Her work goes beyond advocacy; she connects with people on a personal level, giving them hope and the courage to face their challenges. Her appointment would be a blessing for all of us.”
Similarly, Abdullahi Bello Funtua, a youth leader, highlighted Laila’s role in inspiring the younger generation to take health issues seriously. “Laila’s dedication is unmatched. She has inspired many young people, including me, to volunteer and support health initiatives in our communities. She deserves to be in a position where her voice can make even greater impact.”
Muhammad Abubakar Safana, a health advocate in Katsina, highlighted her contributions in his social media post recently:
“Laila has tirelessly advocated for sickle cell patients, providing awareness, support, and a compassionate perspective. Her expertise and commitment make her an invaluable asset to your administration. Appointing her as an aide would amplify the government’s efforts in healthcare advocacy and create impactful policy decisions for the sickle cell community.”
Other supporters echo similar sentiments. Mairo Musa Jibia, a mother of a 3 sickle cell patients, shared that “Laila’s work has touched countless lives, including mine. She provides hope to families battling sickle cell disease and ensures they have access to the resources they need. Her appointment would reflect the government’s commitment to addressing critical health issues.”
Bishir Sade Zango, a youth leader, quoted “Laila is a role model for young people. Her dedication and knowledge inspire us to contribute to our communities. She deserves to be in a position where her impact can be felt on a larger scale.”
Why Laila Ahmad Deserves This Role
Laila’s qualifications for this role are grounded in her hands-on experience, deep understanding of the challenges faced by sickle cell patients, and her ability to create tangible solutions. Some of the reasons are highlighted below:
• Grassroots Impact: Laila has led numerous sensitization programs, educating families about the importance of genetic screening and the management of sickle cell disease.
• Advocacy for Policy Change: She has worked tirelessly to push for improved healthcare policies, focusing on the needs of vulnerable populations.
• Collaborative Leadership: Laila has partnered with local organizations, healthcare providers, and traditional leaders to create a holistic approach to addressing sickle cell challenges.
• Empathy and Commitment: Her unwavering dedication stems from a genuine desire to improve the lives of those affected by sickle cell disease.
A Strategic Opportunity for Governor Radda
Governor Umar Dikko Radda’s administration has consistently demonstrated a commitment to improving healthcare in Katsina State. Appointing Laila Ahmad as a health adviser would align seamlessly with the governor’s vision of inclusive and impactful governance.
Her appointment would send a strong message about the government’s dedication to tackling sickle cell disease, a condition that affects thousands of families in Katsina. By bringing Laila into his team, Governor Radda would gain an informed, compassionate, and dedicated ally who can help shape policies that address the root causes of health disparities in the state.
The Way Forward
Laila Ahmad’s appointment as a health adviser particularly related to sickle cell, would not only recognize her tireless efforts but also set a precedent for valuing grassroots advocacy and lived experience in governance. Her contributions to the sickle cell community make her uniquely qualified to drive meaningful change, ensuring that the needs of vulnerable populations are at the forefront of policy-making.
As Governor Umar Dikko Radda considers his next steps in strengthening healthcare in Katsina, appointing Laila Ahmad would be a decision rooted in empathy, strategy, and a commitment to making a lasting impact.
As more voices join the call for her appointment, it becomes clear that Laila represents the kind of leadership and dedication that can drive meaningful change. By championing her cause, Katsina State has an opportunity to set a precedent for inclusive and impactful health advocacy.
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