The Kogi Health Commissioner, Dr Adeiza Abdulazeez, says that over 150 primary healthcare centers (PHCs) are being revitalised across the 21 local government areas of the state.
Abdulazeez said this at a news conference to mark the 2026 World Health Day on Tuesday in Lokoja.
The programme has the theme “Together for Health, Stand with Science.”
He said that the theme speaks of the core of public health and the collective duty to improve citizens’ well-being.
Abdulazeez highlighted the state’s efforts in strengthening the health system through evidence-based policies, improved data management, and strategic partnership.
He reiterated the commitment of the state to primary healthcare revitalisation, health insurance expansion, and healthcare infrastructure investment.
“We’ll keep prioritising primary healthcare, equip our facilities, and empower our workforce to deliver quality services across the 21 LGAs.
“In line with this, over 150 PHCs are being revitalised, with some completed and others at various stages of completion,” he said.
The commissioner added that many of the citizens were being enrolled in health insurance schemes for universal access to care.
He emphasised the need for unity in science-driven healthcare from disease prevention and control to improved diagnostics and treatment.
“Science remains the foundation of progress in health, from disease prevention and control to improved diagnostics and treatment,” he said.
Abdulazeez noted that collaboration across sectors, disciplines, and communities was key to advancing healthcare.
He acknowledged some challenges which include access to quality healthcare in rural areas, human resource gaps, and disease burdens.
He called on stakeholders to strengthen partnerships between government, the academia, and communities as well as promote trust in science and counter misinformation
The commissioner also stressed the need to support local research and innovation, and ensure that scientific advancements benefited the citizens.
He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to building a resilient, inclusive, and responsive health system, prioritising primary healthcare and empowering healthcare workers.
The state Epidemiologist, Dr Austin Ojotule, said the event was aimed at creating awareness about health needs and promoting healthy living.
“We need collaboration to ensure science works for healthy living,” he said.
Mr Hamza Aliyu, KONGONET Chairperson, said the event raised awareness on public health issues, emphasising science-based planning.
“We need to move away from local unverified methods and understand that health is driven by science,” he said citing myths and misconceptions around immunisation and COVID-19.
Truthng reports that Kogi marked the health day with awareness campaigns, health walk, screenings for blood sugar, hypertension, eye health, and TB, among others.
Health Stakeholders and Partners in Kogi, during a health walk to commemorate 2026 World Health Day on Tuesday in Lokoja
Stakeholders and partners that participated in the programme include the Kogi Primary Health Care Development Agency (KSPHCDA), World Health Organisation (WHO), Nigerian Red Cross, Sightsavers and NGOs.
