The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Primary Health Care (PHC) system has been recognised as one of the best in the federation at the 2024 edition of the Primary Health Care Leadership Challenge Awards, earning the title of the “Most Improved State in PHC.”
A statement by the Special Assistant to the Mandate Secretary on Health and Environment Secretariat, Bola Ajao, revealed that the FCT emerged as the runner-up for “Best Performing and Most Improved State,” receiving a cash incentive of $400,000. This recognition acknowledges the FCT’s innovative implementations and outstanding performance in strengthening the PHC system in alignment with Universal Health Coverage.
“This year’s edition, which is the second, was chaired by Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, who was graciously represented by a former Minister of FCT, Alhaji Aliyu Madibbo,” the statement added.
The PHC Leadership Challenge was launched in 2022 by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) as a commitment to strengthen and improve the Primary Health Care system across the country. Its first award edition took place in 2023.
Since the inception of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, the FCT healthcare system has witnessed significant improvements under the leadership of the Honourable Minister of FCT, Barrister Nyesom Wike. His unwavering efforts aim to deliver the “Renewed Hope Agenda” to the people of the FCT.
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In response to this remarkable achievement, the Mandate Secretary of the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat (HSES), Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, stated: “This award underscores the strategic leadership of the FCT Minister in investing in healthcare and the credible services carried out daily in Primary Health Care centers across the territory.” She also hinted at further advancements in the pipeline.
Dr. Fasawe emphasized that the FCT healthcare system effectively promotes and utilizes the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF), leading to significant improvements in antenatal coverage, increased use of modern contraceptive methods among women, and higher rates of deliveries assisted by skilled birth attendants. These outcomes have been achieved through various initiatives aimed at raising awareness and educating vulnerable women on the importance of accessing quality healthcare within their communities.
While appreciating the efforts of the entire management and staff of the Health Services and Environment Secretariat, along with other stakeholders such as the Federal Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization, Dr. Fasawe called for continued action to fully realize the commitment to strengthening Primary Health Care systems across Nigeria.
At the award ceremony, the HSES was represented by the Acting Executive Secretary of the FCT Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Ruqqaya Wamako, accompanied by the Director of the FCT Health Insurance Scheme, Dr. Salamatu Belgore. Both received the award on behalf of the Secretariat.
The event featured esteemed dignitaries, including the Chairman of the NGF and Governor of Kwara State, Alhaji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who was represented by the Governor of Anambra State, Professor Charles Soludo. The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Ali Pate, was also in attendance.
At the gala/award ceremony marking this year’s event, a total of 14 awards were presented—two per geopolitical zone and one national award. Alongside the FCT, other states that excelled included Gombe State, which won the “Best Implemented Innovation” award, and Anambra State, which received the “Overall Best Performance” award for the 2024 edition.