In a landmark move to revolutionize healthcare access for millions of Nigerians, the Federal Government has embarked on an ambitious journey to transform primary healthcare delivery across the nation. This initiative represents one of the most significant healthcare infrastructure investments in Nigeria’s recent history, aiming to ensure that quality healthcare reaches every ward in the country. The Executive Director of NPHCDA, Dr. Muyi Aina, said this during the agency’s first quarterly news conference for 2025, in Abuja on Tuesday.
The National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) has announced a two-phase transformation strategy:
- Immediate revitalization of 901 Primary Health Centers (PHCs)
- Planned upgrade of an additional 2,701 facilities
- Target of at least one fully functional PHC per ward nationwide
This massive undertaking is part of the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Programme, designed to address the fundamental challenges in healthcare delivery at the grassroots level.
A revolutionary aspect of this initiative is the significant increase in financial support through the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF). The new funding structure includes:
- Expansion from 8,406 to 17,600 supported PHCs
- High-volume centers to receive ₦800,000 quarterly
- Lower-volume facilities to get ₦600,000 quarterly
- Previous flat rate was ₦300,000
The NPHCDA has introduced cutting-edge digital tools to ensure transparency and efficiency:
- Real-time public dashboard accessible at https://phc.nphcda.gov.ng
- Digital financial management system piloted in four states
- Enhanced tracking and accountability measures
The revitalization program operates on three core pillars:
- Strengthening the PHC system infrastructure
- Rebuilding public trust in healthcare services
- Improving frontline health security
The initiative also emphasizes vaccination programs and community health:
- Alignment with African Vaccination Week 2025
- Theme: “Immunisation for All is Humanity Possible”
- Recent data shows that vaccines have saved over 154 million lives globally in the past 50 years
The program addresses several critical challenges:
- Access to healthcare in remote areas
- Quality of service delivery
- Skilled healthcare workforce availability
- Infrastructure maintenance
The success of this initiative could transform Nigeria’s healthcare landscape. As healthcare experts note, the program’s implementation will be crucial in:
- Reducing maternal and infant mortality rates
- Improving vaccination coverage
- Strengthening emergency response capabilities
- Building resilient healthcare infrastructure
This comprehensive healthcare transformation initiative represents a significant step toward achieving universal health coverage in Nigeria. Through digital innovation, increased funding, and strategic implementation, the government is working to ensure that every Nigerian, regardless of location, has access to quality primary healthcare services.
The public can monitor the progress of this initiative through the NPHCDA’s digital dashboard, demonstrating the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability in healthcare delivery. As this ambitious project unfolds, it holds the promise of a healthier future for millions of Nigerians.