Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Usman Ododo, recently commissioned 80 revitalized primary health care facilities across the state, marking a significant leap in the effort to make quality healthcare accessible and affordable for all residents. At the ceremony held in Lokoja, Governor Ododo praised President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his visionary reforms that have unlocked increased funding for states to enhance primary healthcare services.
The upgraded facilities, transformed under initiatives supported by the World Bank IMPACT Project and the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, are set to improve grassroots healthcare profoundly. Enhancements include better infrastructure, two consulting rooms per center, reliable solar power, functional toilets, fenced compounds, staff accommodations, and potable water supply.
Governor Ododo also honored exceptional local government areas and individuals with State Leadership Challenge Awards, recognizing their commitment to advancing healthcare delivery. He left no room for doubt about the consequences of vandalism or misuse of public assets, warning that those who sabotage government projects will face stringent legal action.
Contributing partners such as the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, alongside the NPHCDA, provided essential medical equipment and commodities to support the state’s healthcare transformation.
Dr. Muazu Musa Omeiza, Executive Director of the State Primary Health Care Development Agency, highlighted how upgrading 80 facilities from Level 1 to Level 2 will enable 24-hour service availability, especially for maternal and child health, a critical factor in reducing mortality rates.
Echoing the importance of community involvement, Dr. Omeiza called on traditional and religious leaders to engage actively in safeguarding these healthcare gains.
Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abdulazeez Adams Adeiza, applauded the cooperative spirit between the state and development partners, framing the PHC revitalizations as a testament to visionary leadership and partnership.
The National Primary Health Care Development Agency’s Executive Director and CEO, Dr. Muyi Aina, praised Governor Ododo for his outstanding responsiveness and commitment, noting that Kogi’s standardized PHC designs set a benchmark other states could follow.
Evangelist Kingsley Fanwo, Commissioner for Information and Communications, warmly acknowledged Dr. Aina’s impassioned contributions to Kogi’s progress, emphasizing the state’s pledge to sustain ongoing partnerships and healthcare achievements.
This comprehensive transformation in Kogi reflects a bold stride toward realizing President Tinubu’s vision for equitable, high-quality, and financially accessible healthcare across Nigeria.
