The Federal Government has announced an investment exceeding N23 billion for the revitalization of Primary Health Care Centres (PHCs) nationwide, aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system and improving access to essential medical services.
During the official flag-off of the distribution of medical equipment and health commodities to PHCs in Abuja, Dr. Muyi Aina, Executive Director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), issued a stern warning against the diversion or sabotage of medical supplies.
Dr. Aina disclosed that over N9 billion was allocated for procuring and deploying medical equipment, while more than N14 billion was spent on essential health commodities, including drugs and vaccines. He highlighted that 1,295 PHCs have been fully refurbished, with 38 now benefiting from newly installed solar power systems to enhance operations.
In efforts to bolster human resources, over 69,000 frontline health workers have been trained and equipped with uniforms and work kits through partnerships, including support from the Renewed Hope Initiative led by the First Lady. States like Kaduna have already begun employing additional healthcare personnel, with 216 skilled health attendants and 969 community-based health workers recruited.
Dr. Aina also reported progress in maternal and child health initiatives, with 411,000 pregnant women enrolled across 21 states, and 30,587 receiving care, including antenatal services and diagnostic referrals. He urged state governments to allocate more resources for staffing and maintaining PHCs to ensure sustainability and called on Nigerians to support upcoming immunization campaigns targeting over 109 million children aged 14 and below.
Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, described the initiative as a significant milestone in the Federal Government’s commitment to rebuilding a functional health system, particularly for underserved communities. He emphasized the need for adequately staffed and equipped facilities to reverse years of neglect that left many PHCs in disrepair.
Professor Pate warned against the misuse of medical supplies, stating that anyone found diverting resources would face strict consequences. He reiterated that the distribution of supplies was a tangible fulfillment of promises made under the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Today’s flag-off is proof that the Nigerian health system can rise again and that President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda is real. Let us unite to build a health system that leaves no Nigerian behind,” he concluded.
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