Ododo Commissions 80 Revitalized Primary Health Centres, Commends Tinubu for Strengthening Healthcare Delivery
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, on Friday reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building a people-centered healthcare system with the commissioning of 80 revitalized Primary Health Care (PHC) facilities across the state.
The event, held in Lokoja, also featured a stakeholders’ engagement meeting, presentation of the State Leadership Challenge Awards for outstanding Local Government Areas in healthcare delivery, and the official handover of medical equipment and commodities donated by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA).
Governor Ododo, in his address, described the event as “a landmark in our collective journey toward a stronger and healthier Kogi State,” noting that the revitalization of the 80 PHCs under the World Bank assisted IMPACT Project was a clear demonstration of his administration’s resolve to make quality healthcare accessible to every Kogite.
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his steadfast commitment to transforming Nigeria’s health sector, particularly through investments in primary healthcare that directly benefit rural communities.
“Mr. President has shown true compassion by channeling resources to the grassroots. His leadership has made it possible for states to invest more in primary healthcare delivery, and Kogi State is taking full advantage of this opportunity,” Ododo said.
The Governor also lauded the Executive Director of the NPHCDA, Dr. Muyiwa Aina, describing him as “a visionary reformer whose innovative approach is driving positive change in the health sector.”
Governor Ododo emphasized that the newly upgraded PHC facilities now equipped with staff quarters, boreholes, solar power systems, and security infrastructure would drastically reduce maternal and child mortality rates and improve healthcare accessibility in rural areas.
He warned against vandalism or misuse of public facilities, stating that “anyone caught sabotaging government efforts will face the full weight of the law.”
While congratulating the Local Government Areas and individuals who received the State Leadership Challenge Awards for excellence in healthcare delivery, Ododo urged others to emulate their dedication and commitment to service.
In his welcome address, the Executive Director of the Kogi State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. Muazu Musa Omeiza, said the revitalization effort represents a “revolution in primary healthcare” driven by accountability and sustainability.
He thanked Governor Ododo for his unwavering support and enabling policies that have allowed primary healthcare to thrive in the state.
Dr. Omeiza also appreciated the Federal Ministry of Health, the NPHCDA, and the World Bank for their collaborative support, adding that the newly commissioned facilities will ensure round-the-clock service delivery.
“With these upgrades, we can confidently say that timely medical intervention is now closer to our people than ever before,” he said.
He further highlighted the importance of stakeholder engagement especially traditional and religious institutions in sustaining healthcare initiatives across local communities.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abdulazeez Adams, hailed the collaboration between the state and development partners. “These glaring evidences of performance cannot be hidden. What we see today is the product of visionary leadership, selfless service, and partnership between government and key health agencies,” he remarked.
He reiterated that the revitalized PHC facilities, equipped with solar power, boreholes, staff accommodation, and essential medical equipment, would now provide 24-hour healthcare services, significantly improving healthcare outcomes across Kogi State.
“The security and maintenance of these facilities depend on us all. Communities must take ownership and protect what belongs to them,” he urged.
Dr. Muyi Aina, Executive Director and CEO of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, lauded Governor Ododo’s exemplary leadership and responsiveness. “I engage with many state governors across Nigeria, and I must say, Your Excellency, you stand out in your commitment and responsiveness. You never say no when we make an ask—and that’s true leadership,” Dr. Aina said.
He praised the state’s consistency in stakeholder engagement and its dedication to healthcare innovation, noting that the standardization of the PHC centers’ design was “a model that other states can emulate.”
“Kogi State is translating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of high-quality, equitable, and financially accessible healthcare into reality. We have never had it this good,” he added.
Delivering a vote of thanks, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Evangelist Kingsley Fanwo, expressed gratitude to all stakeholders, particularly Dr. Muyi Aina. “Dr. Aina is a true son of Kogi who continues to point proudly to his roots with the right hand. His contributions to our state’s development embody the spirit of Kogi people’s commitment, resilient, and dedication to progress,” he said.
The event drew participation from top government officials, traditional rulers, healthcare professionals, and representatives of development agencies.
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