Covid-19 and Human Capital Development in Sokoto State, Nigeria: A Descriptive Assessment of Health Sector

Abstract

This study examines the influence of covid-19 on human capital development with special emphasis on health sector in Sokoto State using a survey dataset for a sample of four hundred and fourteen (414) respondents. In the estimation, the study used descriptive statistical techniques such as simple percentage, bar chart and pie chart. The results show that covid-19 has led todecline access to healthcare services; decreases outpatient mental health services; diversion of resources from the treatment of illness such as malaria, HIV, tuberculosis among others to covid-19 treatment and disruption in the services of common diseases such as HIV, malaria, tuberculosis etcetera. The study also indicated that the pandemic lead to shortages of personnel protective equipment; create mortality and morbidity; impulse fear of bringing the virus to family members and high rate of infection and uncertainty. Finally, the study revealed that covid-19 has not led to excessive financial hardship to the health workers in Sokoto State. Based on the findings, this study suggests the need for the government to create emergency fund in every annual budget with view to handle any future occurrence of the unexpected pandemic. Government at all levels should strengthens their effort beyond national boundaries by increasing the capabilities and capacities of public health systems to detect and quickly responds to all disease outbreaks in the future so as to avoid the disruption of services of common illness. Finally, the use of technology and digital solutions in the enlightenment of causes, symptoms and preventions of future pandemic should be encouraged in response to any epidemic.