Primary Health Care Centers in North Central Struggle Due to Insecurity and Lack of Funding
Insecurity and lack of funding have been highlighted as major factors hampering the effectiveness of Primary Health Care Centers (PHCs) in parts of the North Central region of Nigeria. Civil society organizations and other stakeholders have expressed concern over the non-functional state of many PHCs, noting that those that are operational often face challenges in providing essential healthcare services due to inadequate funding.
According to Mr. Steve Aluko, a member of the Civil Liberties Organisation, most PHCs in Plateau State are either locked up or operating with limited facilities and manpower. He attributed this to a lack of funding, non-implementation of policies, shortage of personnel, and a lack of political will on the part of the government. Aluko emphasized that PHCs were established in the 1980s and played a significant role in promoting immunization programs and preventive healthcare. However, over time, they have witnessed a decline in their functionality, posing a threat to Nigeria’s healthcare system.
Gad Shamaki of the CLEEN Foundation, an NGO, echoed Aluko’s concerns, stating that many PHCs, especially in rural areas, are not operational. Despite efforts by some local government authorities to deploy doctors and nurses from the National Youth Service Corps to these centers, their revival remains a challenge. Residents like Mrs. Ngozi Obi from Apata and Mrs. Simi Chollom from Bukuru Lowcost in Jos revealed that their communities’ PHCs are either non-functional or face a shortage of essential drugs.
Meanwhile, in Benue State, stakeholders attribute the non-functionality of PHCs to the prevailing insecurity in rural communities. Mr. Mbaiorga Kunde, a retired Community Health Worker, stated that ongoing clashes between farmers and herders have rendered PHCs ineffective, with people avoiding these areas due to safety concerns. Miss Veronica Oche, a nurse in a private clinic in Makurdi, also highlighted the challenges of inadequate drug supply, epileptic power supply, and a shortage of personnel as hindrances to PHC operations.
Efforts to revive PHCs have been proposed by residents and stakeholders. Suggestions include equipping the centers with essential drugs and personnel, as well as basic facilities. However, the overarching need remains for governments at all levels to prioritize PHCs by providing sufficient funding, implementing policies, and recruiting adequate manpower to ensure effective healthcare service delivery.
The current state of Primary Health Care Centers in the North Central region underscores the urgent need for action. Addressing the issues of insecurity and lack of funding will go a long way in revitalizing these essential healthcare facilities and ensuring that communities have access to the quality healthcare services they deserve.
