In a landmark move to strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the construction of more than 8,800 new Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) across the country. This initiative is part of a larger Health Sector Renewal Investment Program, aimed at improving healthcare access and infrastructure throughout Nigeria.
Vice President Kashim Shettima made the announcement on Saturday during the unveiling of the Sulaiman Adebola Adegunwa Trauma Centre in Sagamu, Ogun State. Speaking at the event, Shettima emphasized that the initiative is not just about building new facilities but also enhancing the capacity of existing healthcare institutions, including tertiary hospitals, to manage complex medical cases like trauma, cancer, and infectious diseases.
“The establishment of these new healthcare centers is a critical step in addressing Nigeria’s healthcare challenges. In addition, we are committed to upgrading tertiary institutions to handle more specialized medical needs,” Shettima explained.
The Vice President also highlighted the growing importance of trauma care, pointing out that Nigeria’s rising urbanization and industrialization have led to increased risks of accidents and emergencies, making effective trauma care essential.
As part of the broader health reforms, the government is also working on enhancing the National Health Insurance Scheme and implementing a Digital Health Information Management System, which aims to improve data-driven healthcare services and accessibility for all Nigerians.
Shettima called on the private sector to contribute to the nation’s health infrastructure, stressing that government alone cannot carry the entire burden. He also praised the Adegunwa family for their contribution to emergency care with the new trauma center, describing it as a symbol of public and private sector collaboration.
The new PHCs, alongside the upgrades to tertiary hospitals, are part of President Tinubu’s vision to overhaul Nigeria’s health sector, making quality healthcare more accessible to the entire population, especially in rural and underserved areas.
This ambitious health initiative is expected to provide much-needed relief to millions of Nigerians, reducing the burden on existing healthcare facilities and ensuring that quality medical care is available nationwide.
