FCT Minister urges increased investment in primary healthcare for mental resilience

The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has called upon governments at all levels to significantly increase investment in primary healthcare systems across the nation.

Dr. Mahmoud made this appeal in Abuja on Monday at an event organized by the Society of Family Physicians of Nigeria, FCT/Keffi Chapter, to commemorate the 2025 World Family Doctors Day.

She underscored the paramount importance of strengthening primary healthcare infrastructure to effectively tackle the escalating health challenges within communities.

“Family doctors are frontline caregivers, uniquely positioned to deliver continuous and person-centred care that promotes early intervention and holistic support. They are the backbone of our healthcare system, providing comprehensive care that nurtures mental wellness and builds resilience in individuals and communities.”

She highlighted the theme of the celebration, “Building Mental Resilience in a Changing World,” emphasizing the crucial role family doctors play in supporting mental health and fostering resilience in the face of global adversities such as climate change, social instability, and economic uncertainty.

Dr. Mahmoud lauded family doctors as “unsung heroes” who work tirelessly in diverse settings to deliver equitable healthcare. She praised their enduring relationships with patients as “vital” for proactively managing mental health issues and chronic diseases.

The minister reiterated that a robust and accessible primary healthcare system is more critical than ever in navigating the complex health landscape marked by pandemics, chronic illnesses, and mental health crises.

She stressed the urgent need for enhanced training, recruitment, and retention of family physicians, particularly in underserved and hard-to-reach communities.

“Not only that, family doctors are unsung heroes, working tirelessly in clinics, rural health posts, urban centres and conflict zones to deliver equitable healthcare,” she said.

Dr. Mahmoud emphasized the importance of recognizing and valuing family medicine within health policy and practice frameworks to ensure sustainable health outcomes for all.

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The chairperson of the family physicians, Dr. Blessing Chukwukelu, acknowledged the unique challenges Nigeria faces, including limited access to mental health services, societal stigma, and a shortage of mental health professionals.

She emphasized that family doctors can bridge these gaps by conducting initial mental health screenings, raising crucial awareness, and providing essential basic psychological support within their communities.

“Family doctors could bridge the gaps by conducting initial mental health screenings, raising awareness and providing basic psychological support. She further noted that integrating mental health services into primary care is crucial and family doctors could play a vital role in promoting mental wellness.”

Dr. Chukwukelu reiterated the unwavering commitment of family physicians to the core principles of family medicine and their dedication to serving the health needs of the Nigerian population.