The Bauchi State Government and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) have commenced the implementation of the Climate Resilient Infrastructure for Basic Services (CRIBS II) Project, targeting the renovation and upgrading of 24 public facilities across the state.

Governor Bala Mohammed disclosed this during the official launch of the project and handover of sites to contractors at the Government House, Bauchi.

Represented by the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Mohammed Auwal Jatau, the governor, said the project would cover 15 Primary Healthcare Centres and nine primary schools in five local government areas.

He explained that the facilities would be upgraded with climate-resilient infrastructure to improve healthcare delivery and learning conditions.

According to him, the intervention includes the installation of solar energy systems, improved water supply, drainage structures, ventilation facilities and sanitation infrastructure.

“The renovation and upgrading of the facilities will provide conducive environments for learning and quality healthcare delivery while mitigating the adverse effects of climate change,” he said.

The governor commended the United Kingdom Government through the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) for supporting the initiative.

He noted that Bauchi State had continued to strengthen its partnership with UNICEF and other development agencies in the areas of healthcare, education and WASH services.

Mohammed disclosed that the state government had contributed over N1.854 billion in counterpart funding within the last one year to support healthcare interventions and projects.

He added that more than 130 Primary Healthcare Centres and two General Hospitals had been constructed or renovated with support from development partners.

Earlier, the Chief of UNICEF Field Office, Bauchi, Dr Nuzrat Rafique, said the project would improve access to safe and climate-resilient schools and healthcare facilities for children and mothers.

She stressed that climate change was already affecting public infrastructure and worsening living conditions for vulnerable populations.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Sani Mohammed Dambam, said the project aligned with global best practices in maternal and child healthcare services.

He praised UNICEF and development partners for their support toward improving healthcare delivery in Bauchi State.