Governor of Kogi State Commits to Revitalizing Primary Health Care
The Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has taken a significant step in improving healthcare access across the state by commissioning 80 revitalized Primary Health Care (PHC) centers spread across the 21 local government areas. This initiative, which was announced during a series of events held in Lokoja, marks a major milestone in the ongoing efforts to bring quality healthcare closer to rural communities.
During the event, Governor Ododo praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his substantial investment in the nationwide revitalization of PHCs. He emphasized that this initiative has transformed the health sector by extending essential services to the grassroots level, ensuring that people have access to free and quality healthcare.
Previously, many rural communities had to travel long distances to reach health facilities, often resulting in preventable deaths. However, with the current investment in PHCs through the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), this trend has been reversed. The governor expressed gratitude to the president and the agency for their efforts in making healthcare more accessible.
Ododo also highlighted that his administration is following the president’s lead by ensuring rapid and positive development across all 21 local government areas of Kogi State. He urged residents to protect the newly revitalized facilities and warned that those caught vandalizing them would face legal consequences.
In addition to the commissioning of the PHC centers, the governor announced cash rewards of ₦250,000 each for winners of the PHC Leadership Challenge across all local government areas. Furthermore, he approved financial allocations of ₦3 million, ₦2 million, and ₦5 million for the first, second, and overall best-performing local government areas (LGAs) respectively in each senatorial district.
Collaboration with NPHCDA
Dr. Muyi Aina, the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), spoke about the agency’s role in working with states to develop PHC services, infrastructure, and systems. He clarified that while the agency supports these initiatives, it does not own the facilities.
Over the past year, the NPHCDA has achieved significant progress in collaboration with states. The agency initially planned to revitalize 196 PHCs, with some funded by the Federal Government, most by the states, and a few by partners. However, Governor Ododo has surpassed this target, demonstrating strong commitment to improving healthcare in Kogi State.
Dr. Aina also mentioned that the NPHCDA is handing over a stock of PHC equipment to be distributed to approximately 24 facilities initially, with more to come. This includes equipment for vaccine storage and essential medicines. Currently, about 237 PHCs receive basic healthcare provision funds from the third quarter. The agency plans to add another 249 facilities, which will now receive quarterly funds directly from the NPHCDA—₦600,000 for low-volume facilities and ₦800,000 for high-volume ones. These funds will help cover utilities, hire ad hoc workers, and manage other operational needs.
Future Plans and Commitment
The governor’s actions reflect a broader commitment to enhancing healthcare delivery in Kogi State. By investing in PHC centers and encouraging leadership among local government areas, Governor Ododo is laying the foundation for a healthier and more resilient community.
With continued support from the NPHCDA and the state government, the future of primary healthcare in Kogi State looks promising. The focus remains on ensuring that every citizen, regardless of where they live, has access to quality healthcare services.