Laraba MUREY
The Kogi State Government has announced plans to invest over ₦7 billion in the revitalization of 88 additional Primary Healthcare Centres, PHCs, across the 21 local government areas of the state.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, represented by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abdulazeez Adams, made the announcement during a ceremony at the Model PHC in Felele, Lokoja, where contractors were officially handed over the project sites.
According to Governor Ododo, this initiative is part of the administration’s strategic plan to enhance healthcare delivery statewide. It complements the ongoing upgrade of 70 PHCs, which are at various stages of completion, as approved by the government in March 2024.
“With the invaluable support of the World Bank, the Kogi State Government has committed over ₦7 billion to this project. This bold step reflects our unwavering dedication to achieving effective healthcare delivery and universal health coverage for our people,” he said.
The Governor highlighted that the upgrade will elevate over 150 PHCs to functional Level-2 health facilities, ensuring quality healthcare access in rural areas.
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritizing grassroots healthcare and acknowledged former Governor Yahaya Bello for laying a strong foundation in the state’s health sector.
Contractors were urged to adhere to high standards of professionalism and complete the projects within four months. Local government authorities and community stakeholders were also called upon to ensure the safety of facilities and active participation in the project.
“This is a collaborative effort to safeguard the health of our citizens. We encourage all stakeholders to take ownership and ensure the sustainability of these healthcare centres,” Ododo stated.
The projects are expected to significantly improve access to quality healthcare services in Kogi State.
