Kogi Revitalises 150 Primary Healthcare Centres to Boost Rural Health

The Kogi State Government has announced the revitalisation of over 150 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) across all 21 Local Government Areas (LGAs).

The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adeiza Abdulazeez, disclosed this on Tuesday during a news conference in Lokoja held to commemorate the 2026 World Health Day. This year’s celebration, themed “Together for Health, Stand with Science,” underscores the state’s shift toward evidence-based medical policies and infrastructure development.

A Scientific Approach to Public Health Dr. Abdulazeez emphasized that the 2026 theme serves as a call to action for collective responsibility in improving citizen well-being.

He noted that the state is currently strengthening its health system through evidence-based policies and improved data management, strategic partnerships with international and local stakeholders, and health insurance expansion to ensure universal access for all residents.

“Science remains the foundation of progress in health, from disease prevention and control to improved diagnostics and treatment,” Abdulazeez stated. “We will keep prioritising primary healthcare, equipping our facilities, and empowering our workforce.”

Of the 150 PHCs targeted for revitalisation, the Commissioner confirmed that several have reached full completion, while others remain at various stages of construction and upgrading.

Addressing Challenges and Misinformation
Despite the progress, the Commissioner acknowledged persistent hurdles, including access to quality healthcare in rural areas, human resource gaps, and the ongoing disease burden. To combat these, he called for stronger ties between the government, academia, and local communities.

He specifically urged stakeholders to promote trust in science to counter medical misinformation.

Supporting this view, Hamza Aliyu, Chairperson of KONGONET, stressed the need for science-based planning over unverified local methods.

He cited lingering myths surrounding immunisation and COVID-19 as barriers that must be dismantled through education and factual reporting.

Collaborative Action for Healthy Living
The event was not merely a formal briefing but included practical health interventions. The State Epidemiologist, Austin Ojotule, noted that the day’s activities were designed to create immediate awareness and provide direct care.

Activities marking the 2026 World Health Day in Kogi included public health awareness walks, free screenings for blood sugar and hypertension, eye health examinations, and Tuberculosis (TB) testing.

The program saw active participation from key partners, including the Kogi Primary Health Care Development Agency (KSPHCDA), the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Nigerian Red Cross, Sightsavers, and various non-governmental organisations.

The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to building a resilient and inclusive health system that prioritises the most vulnerable citizens through empowered healthcare workers and modernised infrastructure.