UNICEF’s Dr Eduardo Celades emphasised that Primary Health Care is crucial, treating 90% of diseases and providing vital preventive services like immunisation.

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has stressed the importance of Primary Health Care (PHC) as the backbone of the health sector in Nigeria.

Dr Eduardo Celades, UNICEF Nigeria’s Chief of Health, spoke during a media dialogue in Jigawa State, explaining that 90% of diseases can be treated at the PHC level.

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However, he noted that PHC services in Nigeria remain weak due to insufficient healthcare workers, poor data management, inadequate funding, and a fragile supply chain.

The media event focused on the 2022 PHC Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the Jigawa State Government, Federal Government, Nigeria Governors Forum, Gavi, and UNICEF.

The MoU aims to improve routine immunisation and strengthen PHC systems, particularly in rural areas, to reduce mortality rates among women and children.

Dr Shehu Sambo, Director of Primary Health Care in Jigawa, highlighted the state’s ongoing efforts to revitalise PHCs, with over 281 facilities being upgraded.

These improvements are designed to enhance healthcare delivery, bring essential services closer to communities, and ensure that no one is left behind.