Ododo promises healthcare reforms to improve primary healthcare in Kogi

Governor Ahmed Ododo of Kogi has pledged to implement significant reforms aimed at enhancing the state’s healthcare services, particularly PHC primary healthcare, to better serve residents.

Ododo made the commitment during a stakeholders’ engagement on primary healthcare revitalisation in Lokoja on Friday, where he was represented by his deputy, Mr. Joel Salifu.

The governor announced the introduction of periodic spot checks on all Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) in the state, as part of the reforms designed to revolutionise the healthcare system.

The goal is to provide high-quality, accessible healthcare services to Kogi’s residents.

“This initiative, led by the Primary Healthcare Task Force in collaboration with local government authorities and traditional rulers, is focused on ensuring accountability,” Ododo said. “It will also improve coordination and raise the standard of services provided at PHCs.”

The governor stressed that the reforms aim to tackle existing challenges in the healthcare system, with a focus on improving health outcomes through better data collection and adherence to best practices in case management across all PHCs.

He also highlighted the vital role of PHCs in reducing maternal and infant mortality rates, increasing immunization coverage, and promoting awareness about the importance of primary healthcare in the state’s overall healthcare system.

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Ododo expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his continuous support of healthcare reforms nationwide, noting that the federal backing has played a key role in advancing Kogi’s healthcare improvement efforts.

Kogi’s Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abdulazeez Adams, underscored the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders in sustaining healthcare initiatives.

He revealed that at least one PHC is operational in each of the state’s 239 wards, with plans underway to increase the number of fully functional centres.

In his remarks, the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, His Royal Majesty Ahmed Tijani Muhammed-Anaje, commended the state health ministry for its dedication to improving primary healthcare.

He also pledged the support of traditional rulers in monitoring and ensuring the delivery of quality services at PHCs.