Nigeria’s National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) has embarked on a mission to transform the country’s Primary Health Care (PHC) system, addressing pressing health concerns that have long plagued the nation. At the forefront of these efforts is the agency’s CEO, Muyi Aina, who recently shared the NPHCDA’s top priorities in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
Three Key Objectives:
1. Enhancing PHC Functionality and Coverage: The NPHCDA aims to significantly expand the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) facilities from 8,400 to 17,600 over the next few years. This ambitious plan includes investing in modern, dignified infrastructure, round-the-clock services powered by solar energy, and providing accommodation for healthcare workers.
2. Boosting the Quality and Capacity of Health Workers: To combat the severe shortage of healthcare professionals, the agency has launched a large-scale retraining program for 120,000 frontline health workers over four years. Already, 43,000 workers have benefited from this initiative. Additionally, efforts are underway to improve staff retention by creating a conducive working environment, offering special incentives for rural workers, and providing on-site accommodations.
3. Targeted Interventions for Maternal and Under-Five Mortality Rates: The NPHCDA is determined to reduce these alarming rates. In line with President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to decreasing maternal mortality, the agency has introduced the Maternal Mortality Reduction Initiative, which includes free caesarean sections for eligible Nigerians.
Tackling Past Challenges, Embracing Transparency
The NPHCDA acknowledges previous hurdles, such as inadequate funding and coordination among federal, state, and non-governmental actors. However, with the Federal Ministry of Health’s introduction of a sector-wide approach, the agency is now better positioned to unify efforts and maximize resources.
Furthermore, partnerships with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Department of State Services ensure transparency and accountability in fund management.
Expert Insights and Future Outlook
Stakeholders have welcomed the NPHCDA’s ambitious goals and reforms, signaling a new era for Nigeria’s PHC system. Gabriel Adakole, a public health expert, commended the focus on revitalizing PHCs, emphasizing the challenges ahead, particularly in ensuring consistent funding and effective management of these facilities.
Amina Yusuf, a maternal health specialist, hailed the Maternal Mortality Reduction Initiative, stressing the need for adequately equipped and staffed rural PHCs to succeed.
As Nigeria embarks on this transformative journey, the NPHCDA’s commitment to enhancing its PHC system, tackling maternal mortality, worker retention, and chronic diseases offers a beacon of hope. By embracing transparency, accountability, and evidence-based interventions, the agency is poised to revolutionize the nation’s healthcare landscape.