The governor of Agadez region, General Division Ibra Boulama Issa, on September 17, 2026, awarded an official certificate of satisfaction to the outgoing Director Regional of Health and Public Hygiene, Oumarou Ousmane. The ceremony took place at the Agadez Governorship, attended by several civil and military personalities, as well as a large mobilization of health personnel from the region. This strong mobilization of health personnel is, in itself, a testament to the esteem and consideration enjoyed by Ousmane after 33 months at the head of the Regional Health and Public Hygiene Directorate.
During his tenure, Ousmane oversaw significant improvements in the healthcare sector, including an increase in health coverage to 69.78%, with disparities between different zones, ranging from 28.13% in Aderbissinat department to 97.48% in Agadez commune. The region also saw a strengthening of human resources, with the mobilization of 275 agents, including 65 titular agents, 185 civic service agents, and 25 contractual agents. Furthermore, the region benefited from 9 ambulances, utility vehicles, vans, and motorcycles to improve team mobility and medical evacuations.
The health infrastructure also underwent significant transformations, with the construction and rehabilitation of several structures, as well as the conversion of some health centers into Integrated Health Centers (CSI). At the Agadez Regional Hospital Center (CHR), investments focused on strengthening the technical platform, with equipment and services contributing to improved patient care, particularly in hemodialysis, medical imaging, and oxygen therapy. Additionally, efforts were made to improve access to water in health facilities, with 71.88% of CSIs having a water point.
Vaccination also recorded significant progress during Ousmane's tenure, with key indicators showing 103.8% for Penta 1, 98.70% for Penta 3, 89.70% for VAR 1, and 71.30% for VAR 2 in the first half of 2026. These performances were supported by regular vaccination campaigns against several diseases, including poliomyelitis, measles, yellow fever, meningitis, and diphtheria. The vaccination strategy was also strengthened through communication and awareness activities, as well as regular visits by teams to different health zones.
A notable example of the vaccination efforts was the poliomyelitis vaccination campaign organized in July 2026, which vaccinated 285,228 children aged 0-59 months out of a target of 265,853 children, representing a coverage of 107%. General Division Ibra Boulama Issa attributed these results to Ousmane's management and ability to mobilize different actors around health priorities. The governor praised Ousmane's managerial qualities, availability, and commitment to his mission.
In response to the governor's remarks, Ousmane expressed his gratitude to the regional authorities for their constant support during his 33 months at the head of the DRS/HP. He acknowledged the guidance, support, and encouragement of the governor in implementing various health activities. Ousmane emphasized that the achievements were not solely his own, but rather the result of the combined efforts of health personnel, administrative and customary authorities, and partner organizations.
The ceremony marked the end of Ousmane's tenure as Director Regional of Health and Public Hygiene, as he prepares to take on a new role in Diffa. The governor's recognition of Ousmane's achievements serves as a testament to his dedication and hard work in improving the healthcare sector in Agadez region. Ousmane's legacy will likely continue to impact the region's healthcare landscape for years to come.
Key points
- The Agadez region saw significant improvements in healthcare coverage, infrastructure, and vaccination rates during Oumarou Ousmane's 33-month tenure as Director Regional of Health and Public Hygiene.
