The Kogi State Commissioner for Health, Dr Adeiza Abdulazeez, says more than 150 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) are being revitalized across the 21 local government areas of the state.
Abdulazeez made this known at a news conference on Tuesday in Lokoja to mark the 2026 World Health Day, themed “Together for Health: Stand with Science.”
He said the theme reflects the core of public health and the collective responsibility to improve citizens’ well-being.
Abdulazeez highlighted the state’s efforts to strengthen the health system through evidence-based policies, improved data management, and strategic partnerships.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to primary healthcare revitalization, expansion of health insurance, and investment in healthcare infrastructure.
“We will continue to prioritize 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 revitalized, with some completed and others at various stages of completion,” he said.
The commissioner added that many citizens are being enrolled in health insurance schemes to ensure universal access to care.
He emphasized 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 is key to advancing healthcare.
He acknowledged challenges such as limited access to quality healthcare in rural areas, human resource gaps, and disease burdens.
He called on stakeholders to strengthen partnerships among government, 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 benefit citizens.
He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to building a resilient, inclusive, and responsive health system, with a focus on primary healthcare and workforce empowerment.
The state Epidemiologist, Dr Austin Ojotule, said the event was aimed at raising awareness of health needs and promoting healthy living.
“We need collaboration to ensure science supports healthy living,” he said.
Mr Hamza Aliyu, Chairperson of KONGONET, said the event helped raise awareness of public health issues and emphasized science-based planning.
“We need to move away from unverified local methods and recognize that health is driven by science,” he said, citing myths and misconceptions around immunization and COVID-19.
Kogi marked the day with awareness campaigns, a health walk, and screenings for blood sugar, hypertension, eye health, and tuberculosis.
Stakeholders and partners at the event included the Kogi State Primary Health Care Development Agency (KSPHCDA), the World Health Organization (WHO), the Nigerian Red Cross, Sightsavers, and other NGOs.
