In a significant move to transform healthcare delivery, Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has officially commissioned 80 revitalised primary healthcare facilities across the state. The ceremony, held on Friday in Lokoja, represents a major milestone in the administration's drive to provide accessible and affordable quality healthcare to all citizens.
A Vision for People-Centred Healthcare
Governor Ododo addressed the gathering, stating that the event symbolises the government's vision of building a sustainable and people-centred healthcare system for every community in Kogi State. He praised President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his dedication to reforming Nigeria's health sector, noting that the President's visionary policies have enabled states to access more funds for primary healthcare investment.
The governor also acknowledged the crucial support from development partners, including the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), which donated essential medical equipment and commodities to support the state's efforts.
Major Infrastructure Upgrades Unveiled
Dr. Muazu Omeiza, the Executive Director of the Kogi State Primary Health Care Development Agency, provided details on the extensive upgrades. He explained that the 80 facilities have been transformed from Level 1 to Level 2 status, featuring significant improvements including:
- Two consulting rooms per facility
- Uninterrupted power supply through solar energy
- Functional toilets and staff quarters
- Fenced compounds and portable water supply
These enhancements, achieved through the World Bank IMPACT Project and NPHCDA collaboration, are expected to dramatically improve grassroots healthcare service delivery.
Recognition and Strong Partnerships
During the event, Governor Ododo presented State Leadership Challenge Awards to outstanding Local Government Areas and individuals who demonstrated exceptional commitment to healthcare delivery. He issued a strong warning against vandalism and misuse of public assets, stating that anyone caught sabotaging government efforts would face legal consequences.
The governor commended Dr. Abdulazeez Adams Adeiza, Honourable Commissioner for Health, and Dr. Muazu Musa Omeiza for their outstanding work in redefining healthcare in Kogi State.
Dr. Muyi Aina, Executive Director and CEO of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, praised Governor Ododo's exemplary leadership and responsiveness. "I engage with many state governors across Nigeria, and I must say, Your Excellency, you stand out in your commitment and responsiveness. You never say no when we make an ask—and that's true leadership," Dr. Aina remarked.
He highlighted Kogi State's consistency in stakeholder engagement and healthcare innovation, noting that the standardised design of the PHC centres serves as a model for other states to emulate. Dr. Aina concluded that Kogi State is effectively translating President Tinubu's vision of high-quality, equitable, and financially accessible healthcare into reality.
