Lagos NMA chair Dr Babajide Saheed calls for a doctor in every PHC to improve grassroots healthcare access

Dr Babajide Saheed, Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association, Lagos State chapter, has called for all Primary Healthcare Centres in Lagos to be fully functional and staffed with at least one doctor.

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Speaking on Monday, Saheed stressed that ensuring every PHC has a doctor is vital to meet the healthcare needs of underserved communities and to reduce pressure on overcrowded secondary and tertiary hospitals.

“The number of primary health centres required should correspond with the number of wards in the state. Lagos has 376 wards, and ideally, each should have a primary health centre,” Saheed said. “Each centre must have at least one doctor to provide confidence, early diagnosis, and quality care.”

Saheed noted that many residents in densely populated areas lack nearby primary care facilities, often forcing them to travel long distances for basic health services.

He emphasised that expanding access at the grassroots level would improve disease prevention, early treatment, and overall public health outcomes.

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The NMA chair also urged collaboration with private healthcare providers to enhance access. “Private hospitals can be integrated into the system to deliver primary care at minimal cost. This approach can reduce congestion in larger hospitals and lower healthcare expenses for residents,” he added.

Saheed concluded that a strong primary healthcare system is essential for an effective and equitable health sector in Lagos.