The Federal Government has announced plans to increase Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) from the current 8,300 to 17,600 over the next four years, with 9,300 new additions.
The initiative, aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, also involves training 120,000 frontline health workers
Nigeria, like many nations, grapples with healthcare disparities, particularly in rural and underserved areas. The scarcity of accessible and quality healthcare facilities has been a persistent challenge. The Federal Government’s commitment to expanding the network of PHCs demonstrates a strategic effort to address these disparities and ensure that healthcare services reach every corner of the country.
The decision to increase the number of PHCs from the current 8,300 to 17,600 is a monumental step towards strengthening the primary healthcare system. These centres serve as the first point of contact for individuals seeking healthcare services, emphasizing preventive care, and addressing common health issues at the community level. By nearly doubling the number of PHCs, the government aims to make essential healthcare services more accessible to the population.
The initiative aligns seamlessly with the Renewed Hope Agenda championed by President Bola Tinubu. This agenda emphasizes key pillars of development, including healthcare, as a means to create a more robust and equitable society. The commitment to expanding PHCs is a tangible manifestation of the government’s dedication to improving the well-being of its citizens and fostering a healthier nation.
Recognizing that infrastructure alone is not sufficient, the Federal Government’s plan extends beyond the physical construction of PHCs. The initiative includes the training of 120,000 frontline health workers. This comprehensive approach ensures that not only will there be more healthcare facilities, but also a skilled and empowered workforce to staff these centres effectively.
Coordinating Minister for Health and Social Welfare, Prof Ali Pate, shared this during a meeting of the Northeast Forum of Health Commissioners in Maiduguri.
The initiative, aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, also involves training 120,000 frontline health workers.
Pate, represented by Dr Muyi Aina, Executive Director of the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency, emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts for efficient, equitable, and quality healthcare services, particularly in addressing health challenges in the North East.
Pate said, “The Nigerian Health Sector Renewal Investment Programme, which encapsulates our strategic vision for the sector was geared towards a cohesive common goal to save lives, reduce both physical and financial pains, and produce health for all Nigerians.”
In his remarks, the Executive Governor of Borno State, Prof Baba Zulum, called on the World Health Organisation to fulfil its promises to the state, adding that the reduction and management of Tuberculosis, the provision of DNA machines for gender-based violence management, and the construction of hospitals some Local Governments should be a priority.
Zulum said, “These promises were not mere expressions of goodwill; they represented lifelines for our people, for mothers delivering children, for victims of unimaginable violence, for entire communities struggling against diseases.”
The Federal Government’s commitment to building 9,300 new PHCs within the next four years represents a monumental leap towards a more inclusive and accessible healthcare system in Nigeria. This initiative, aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda, showcases a dedication to addressing healthcare disparities and improving the overall well-being of the population. As the government embarks on this ambitious journey, collaboration, innovation, and community involvement will be key to ensuring the success and sustainability of this transformative healthcare expansion.