Kogi State Commissioner of Health, Adeiza Abdulazeez, says that over 150 primary healthcare centres are being revitalised across the state’s 21 local government areas.

Mr Abdulazeez said this at a news conference in Lokoja on Tuesday to mark the 2026 World Health Day.

The programme has the theme “Together for Health, Stand with Science”.

He said that the theme speaks of the core of public health and the collective duty to improve citizens’ well-being.

Mr Abdulazeez highlighted the state’s efforts in strengthening the health system through evidence-based policies, improved data management, and strategic partnerships.

He reiterated the state’s commitment to primary healthcare revitalisation, health insurance expansion, and investment in healthcare infrastructure.

“We’ll keep prioritising 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 revitalised, with some completed and others at various stages of completion,” he said.

The commissioner added that many citizens were being enrolled in health insurance schemes to ensure universal access to care.

He emphasised 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.
Mr Abdulazeez noted that collaboration across sectors, disciplines, and communities was key to advancing healthcare.

He acknowledged some challenges, which include access to quality healthcare in rural areas, human resource gaps, and disease burdens.
He called on stakeholders to strengthen partnerships between 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 to ensure that scientific advancements benefit citizens.
He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to building a resilient, inclusive, and responsive health system, prioritising primary healthcare and empowering healthcare workers.

The state epidemiologist, Austin Ojotule, said the event was aimed at creating awareness about health needs and promoting healthy living.
“We need collaboration to ensure science works for healthy living,” he said.

Hamza Aliyu, KONGONET chairperson, said the event raised awareness on public health issues, emphasising science-based planning.
“We need to move away from local unverified methods and understand that health is driven by science,” he said, citing myths and misconceptions around immunisation and COVID-19.
Kogi marked the health day with awareness campaigns, health walks, screenings for blood sugar, hypertension, eye health, and TB, among others.

Stakeholders and partners that participated in the programme include the Kogi Primary Health Care Development Agency (KSPHCDA), the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Nigerian Red Cross, Sightsavers and NGOs.
(NAN)