Lokoja, Kogi State – In a bold stride towards advancing healthcare delivery, the Kogi State Government has allocated over ₦7 billion for the comprehensive revamp of 88 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) spread across the state’s 21 local government areas.
Governor Ahmed Ododo made this announcement on Saturday during a ceremony at the Model Primary Healthcare Centre in Felele, Lokoja. The event marked the official handover of the 88 additional PHCs to contractors for revitalization. Represented by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abdulazeez Adams, the governor underscored the importance of this initiative as a critical part of the state’s commitment to enhancing healthcare accessibility for all citizens.
A Strategic Investment in Healthcare
The revitalization of these healthcare centres builds upon the ongoing upgrade of 70 PHCs, which are at various stages of completion following state government approval in March 2024. Together, these projects will transform over 150 primary healthcare facilities into fully functional Level-2 centres, significantly boosting the healthcare capacity across Kogi State.
“This groundbreaking initiative reflects our administration’s unwavering dedication to improving healthcare delivery,” Governor Ododo stated. “With invaluable support from the World Bank, we are committed to providing accessible, quality healthcare for all, especially for those in underserved rural communities.”
The governor emphasized that the upgrade aligns with Kogi State’s strategic healthcare plan, which aims to achieve universal health coverage and ensure equitable access to medical services.
Federal and Local Partnerships
Governor Ododo expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for prioritizing the well-being of ordinary Nigerians through enhanced grassroots healthcare access. He also commended the previous administration led by former Governor Yahaya Bello for establishing a solid foundation for the health sector’s transformation in Kogi State.
Commitment to Excellence and Community Involvement
Addressing the contractors entrusted with the projects, the governor urged adherence to the highest standards of professionalism and timely delivery of all works within four months. He emphasized the importance of collaborating with local government authorities and community stakeholders to adopt an inclusive approach that respects social and environmental safeguards.
“I call on all contractors to maintain integrity, professionalism, and excellence in executing these projects,” Ododo said. “Timely completion is crucial, and community engagement will be key to ensuring the success and sustainability of these healthcare centres.”
He further encouraged local authorities and community leaders to take ownership of the projects, ensuring the protection of personnel, equipment, and the upgraded facilities once completed.
Supervision and Oversight
To guarantee quality delivery, the governor directed all relevant government bodies, coordinated by the State Ministry of Health, to supervise the projects closely. This, he stated, would ensure that the objectives of the initiative are met and that citizens benefit from the investment in improved healthcare infrastructure.
A Leap Towards Universal Healthcare
As Kogi State steps into 2025, the ₦7 billion allocated for upgrading 88 additional PHCs signals a transformative vision for healthcare delivery. This initiative is set to impact lives positively, particularly in rural communities, by providing quality healthcare access, reducing disease burdens, and fostering a healthier population.
Through bold investments, strategic planning, and collaboration with federal and global partners, Kogi State continues to position itself as a leader in Nigeria’s quest for equitable and effective healthcare services.
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