Gov. Ahmed Ododo of Kogi has promised to implement extensive reforms in the state’s healthcare services to maximise benefits for residents.
The governor made the pledge at a stakeholders’ engagement on primary healthcare revitalisation on Friday in Lokoja.
Ododo, who was represented by his deputy, Mr Joel Salifu, announced the introduction of periodic spot checks on all Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) across the state.
He said the unveiling of ambitious reforms was aimed at revolutionising the state’s primary healthcare system to deliver high quality and accessible services.
“This initiative, led by the Primary Healthcare Task Force in collaboration with local government authorities and traditional rulers, is designed to ensure accountability.
”It will also enhance coordination, and elevate the standard of services provided by the PHCs.
“Our administration is determined to address challenges in the primary healthcare system and ensure better health outcomes for our residents.
“This will be achieved through improved data collection and adherence to best practices in case management across all PHCs,” the governor said.
He highlighted the critical roles of PHCs in reducing maternal and infant mortality rates, boosting immunisation coverage, and raising awareness about the importance of primary healthcare in the state’s healthcare value chain.
Ododo expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his unwavering support for healthcare reforms across the country.
He added that such backing had been instrumental in driving the state’s efforts in healthcare reforms.
Earlier, the state Commissioner for Health, Dr Abdulazeez Adams stressed the need for collaboration among stakeholders in sustaining healthcare initiatives.
Adams revealed that at least, one PHC in each of the state’s 239 wards is operational and supported by funding.
He added that plans were underway to increase the number of fully functional PHCs across all wards of the state.
In his remarks, the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, His Royal Majesty, Ahmed Tijani Muhammed-Anaje, commended the health ministry for its relentless efforts at improving primary healthcare delivery.
The traditional ruler pledged continued support of traditional rulers in monitoring and supervising PHCs to maintain service delivery standards.
(NAN)
