Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Ododo, has unveiled a series of reforms to transform the state’s primary healthcare system, ensuring accessible and high-quality services for residents.
During a stakeholders’ engagement on primary healthcare revitalization held in Lokoja on Friday, Ododo, represented by his Deputy, Joel Salifu, announced the introduction of periodic inspections at Primary Healthcare Centres statewide.
“This initiative, spearheaded by the Primary Healthcare Task Force in partnership with local government authorities and traditional rulers, is designed to enhance accountability, improve coordination, and raise the quality of services delivered by PHCs,” he said.
Governor Ododo reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to strengthening healthcare services, particularly in addressing critical issues like maternal and infant mortality rates.
He emphasized the role of PHCs in boosting immunization rates and raising awareness about their importance in the overall healthcare value chain.
“Our administration is resolute in tackling the challenges facing the primary healthcare system to ensure better health outcomes for all citizens. This will be achieved through improved data collection and strict adherence to global best practices in case management across all PHCs,” Ododo stated.
The governor also expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for supporting healthcare reforms at the national level, noting that such initiatives have played a significant role in advancing efforts within Kogi State.
Dr. Abdulazeez Adams, the state’s Commissioner for Health, highlighted the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to sustain the gains of healthcare initiatives.
“Currently, at least one PHC in each of Kogi’s 239 wards is operational and funded, with plans underway to increase the number of fully functional centres across the state,” he revealed.
Traditional leaders also pledged their support for the reforms. The Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, Ahmed Anaje, lauded the Ministry of Health for its efforts to improve PHC services and committed to monitoring PHCs in their jurisdictions to ensure compliance with service delivery standards.
“These reforms are crucial for the wellbeing of our people, and we will work closely with the government to sustain this progress,” Anaje assured.
