Lokoja, Nigeria – In a move towards enhancing healthcare accessibility and quality, Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has announced ambitious reforms targeting the primary healthcare system.
The initiative was detailed during a stakeholders’ engagement in Lokoja, where the Governor was represented by Deputy Governor Comrade Joel Salifu.
The new strategy includes periodic spot checks on all Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) throughout the state. These checks will be conducted by a task force in partnership with local government officials and traditional leaders to ensure accountability and raise service standards.
Governor Ododo emphasized the pivotal role of PHCs in reducing maternal and infant mortality, increasing immunization rates, and promoting awareness about primary healthcare’s importance within the healthcare framework.
“Our administration is committed to overcoming the hurdles in our primary healthcare system to achieve better health results for our citizens,” Ododo stated, underlining the importance of enhanced data collection and adherence to best practices in managing health cases.
The Governor also acknowledged the support from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in advancing healthcare reforms nationwide, which he said has been crucial for Kogi State’s initiatives.
Dr. Abdulazeez Adams, the State Commissioner for Health, spoke on the need for collaborative efforts among stakeholders to sustain these health programs.
He noted that currently, at least one PHC in each of the state’s 239 wards is operational and funded, with plans to further expand the network of fully functional centers.
The Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, His Royal Majesty, Ahmed Tijani Muhammed Anaje, praised the health ministry’s efforts and assured ongoing support from traditional rulers in overseeing the PHCs to uphold service quality.