The Federal Government has disbursed N45 billion to equip the Primary Health Centres facilities nationwide, Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, announced.
Speaking at the 2024 Joint Annual Health Review meeting in Abuja, Prof. Pate stated that the funds, directly allocated to primary healthcare centres (PHCs) in partnership with state governments, aim to significantly improve access to essential health services in rural and underserved areas.
The initiative, part of the PHC 2.0 reform, has already channeled resources into over 8,000 centres, empowering them with both financial backing and workforce support.
“The 45 billion Naira disbursed to PHCs directly impacts communities,” said Prof. Pate.
“Through the PHC 2.0 reform, we have placed equity at the forefront, providing financial and human resources across these facilities to reach our people directly.”
Under the reform’s strategy, the Health Ministry is collaborating with state governments and development partners to revitalise more than 2,600 healthcare centres, with plans to upgrade an additional 2,000.
According to the minister, over 40,000 frontline health workers have already received training, with a target of reaching 120,000 in the coming years.
The comprehensive upgrade of PHCs is intended to address critical health challenges, particularly in areas such as under-five mortality, diarrheal disease reduction, and workforce development.
Prof. Pate highlighted progress in reducing child mortality rates by 16.7% since 2018 and cutting diarrheal diseases by 40%, marking substantial strides in national health outcomes.
However, he acknowledged persistent challenges, citing routine immunisation, maternal mortality, and malnutrition as areas demanding urgent attention and improvement.
“We must work together across sectors and secure stronger investments from both federal and state levels,” Prof. Pate urged. “The task ahead is enormous, but our collective resolve and genuine partnerships will build a healthier Nigeria.”
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