Kogi earmarks N7bn for upgrade of 88 healthcare facilities, hand over sites to contractors

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The Kogi State Government says it has committed the sum of N7 billion for the upgrade of 88 additional Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) across the state.

The State Governor, Alh. Ahmed Ododo stated this on Saturday in Lokoja, during the official Handing over of Sites to Contractors for “Upgrade of 88 Additional Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs)”.

Ododo, who was represented by the state’s Commissioner for Health, Dr Abdulazeez Adeiza, said the additional 88 PHCs would complement the ongoing upgrade of 70 PHCs to functional Leve-two facilities.

The governor described the initiative as another bold step toward achieving effective healthcare delivery and universal health coverage for citizens.

“With the invaluable support of the World Bank, the Kogi State Government has committed over N7 billion to this project, a testament to our unwavering dedication to improving the lives of our citizens.

“Today, we officially hand over these project sites to contractors who have successfully navigated a rigorous procurement process and proven their capacity to execute these projects.

“On behalf of the government, I urge you to adhere to the highest standards of professionalism and complete the upgrades within the stipulated timeframe of four months.

“I implore you to actively engage with the communities where you will work. Collaborate with Local Government Chairpersons, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and youth representatives.

“This inclusive approach will foster a sense of ownership and responsibility among the communities.

“Additionally, I emphasize the importance of adhering to social and environmental safeguards throughout your assignments,” Ododo said.

The governor appreciated President Bola Tinubu, for his visionary leadership and relentless efforts in ensuring Nigerians receive quality healthcare, especially at the grassroots level.

He stressed that President Tinubu’s proactive engagement has further strengthened the commitment of international development partners to our healthcare goals.

Ododo also acknowledged the remarkable foundation laid by his predecessor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, saying his commitment to the health sector had provided a strong platform for his administration to build upon.

The governor appealed to the community for their cooperation in protecting the personnel and equipment on site, stressing that the benefits of the project would serve them all.

He added: “Your support is essential for timely and successful delivery. Take ownership of the projects and ensure that they are protected and secured to serve you.

“To our government officials at both state and Local Government levels, I charge you to take personal responsibility for supervising these projects within your communities.

“Ensure continuous monitoring and report your observations through the Ministry of Health and the State Primary Healthcare Development Agency to my office.

“This is the wisdom behind the appointment of Local and Ward Special Assistants by our administration. We must always supervise our projects and get value for money.

“Together, we will deliver on this promise and ensure a healthier future for all Kogites,”.

Earlier, the Executive Director, Kogi State Primary Health Care Development Agency (KSPHCDA), Dr Musa Muazu, said the upgrading of the PHC facilities demonstrated government’s commitment to providing quality healthcare services to our citizens, particularly in rural areas.

Muazu, who was represented by Hadiya Ahmad, the Case Manager Immunisation, IMPACT Project, said the project was a testament to the state government’s dedication to improving the well-being of its people.

“We recognise the importance of accessible and affordable healthcare in promoting economic growth, reducing poverty, and enhancing the overall quality of life.

“To our contractors, we entrust you with the responsibility of delivering these projects on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality,” Muazu said.

Muazu thanked the governor for his unwavering commitment to improving the healthcare system in the state, saying his leadership and vision have been instrumental in shaping the healthcare agenda.

Four Contractors would handle the 88 PHCs upgrade across the state, which include: INKNUEL Ltd, Multipurpose Erand Ltd, QSA Nig Ltd, and Base-SAN Ventures.

Responding on behalf of the Contractors, Brig. Gen. Stephen BAWA rtd, promised that the projects would be delivered according to the standard specifications within the time frame.

Bawa assured that the youths of the communities would be engaged in the projects execution.

In their various comments, the Chairman of Lokoja Local Government Area, Abdullahi Adamu; and the Permanent Secretary, Kogi State of Ministry of Health, Mrs Dorcas Enehe, both urged the people to take ownership of the projects, and protect the contractors and their equipment.

Rev. Francis Eleson, Chairman , Ward Community Development, Oworo; and Mr Mahmud Obewa, the Community Youth Leader, both appreciated the governor for prioritising the healthcare delivery to the people at the grassroots.

They promised adequate protection by creating enabling environment for the contractors to successfully execute the projects for the benefits of their people.

 

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