The Kogi State Government has trained 1,282 frontline health workers to strengthen service delivery and improve health outcomes across the state. The initiative, organized by the Kogi State Primary Health Care Development Agency (KSPHCDA) in collaboration with the State Ministry of Health, the Federal Government, and development partners, also included the distribution of personal protective equipment (PPE) to health workers.
Government’s Commitment to Quality Healthcare
Governor Ahmed Ododo, who officially launched the training on Monday at Government House, Lokoja, emphasized his administration’s commitment to quality healthcare services. Represented by Deputy Governor Elder Joel Salifu, Ododo announced plans to recruit more nurses and midwives to further strengthen the state’s healthcare workforce.
“We are committed to providing our citizens with access to quality healthcare services, and we recognize that our healthcare workforce plays a critical role in achieving this goal,” he stated.
The governor highlighted that recruiting additional healthcare professionals aligns with the government’s broader agenda to revitalize the healthcare system and improve service delivery.
Commendations from NPHCDA and Health Experts
The Executive Director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr. Muyi Aina, commended the Kogi State Government for prioritizing primary healthcare. Represented by Dr. Ngozi Nwosu, Director of System Development, NPHCDA, Aina praised the state’s efforts in upgrading primary healthcare centers (PHCs) and enhancing the skills of healthcare workers.
He disclosed that the Federal Government had launched a comprehensive training program targeting 120,000 frontline health workers nationwide, with 56,060 already trained in 34 states. Kogi’s goal is to train 1,282 health workers under this initiative.
Strengthening the Healthcare System
Kogi’s Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adeiza Abdulazeez, described the training as a key step toward achieving universal health coverage. He noted significant progress in healthcare delivery, particularly in vaccination efforts, leading to an 80% reduction in unvaccinated individuals.
“A strong and efficient primary healthcare system is essential for achieving universal health coverage. The state government remains committed to strengthening healthcare at all levels,” Abdulazeez said.
Similarly, Dr. Musa Mu’azu, Executive Director of KSPHCDA, emphasized that primary healthcare workers serve as the frontline soldiers in delivering essential medical services to communities. He highlighted challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, shortage of skilled personnel, and limited resources, while commending Governor Ododo’s efforts to enhance healthcare infrastructure, workforce training, and the provision of PPE.
Support from Development Partners
Representatives from World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and traditional leaders, including HRH Oba Fredrick Balogun, the Olu of Apata, pledged their support for the initiative, recognizing its potential to strengthen Kogi’s healthcare workforce.
The event concluded with the official inauguration of the training program and the distribution of PPE to participating health workers. The initiative is expected to equip healthcare professionals with essential skills and knowledge, ultimately improving healthcare access and outcomes across Kogi State.
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