By Chioma Umeha |
Lagos – To mark the World Health Day, the Public Health Sustainable Advocacy Initiative (PHSAI) under its ongoing, SMART Advocacy Strategy in Action (SASA) Project has urged Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to prioritise sustainable funding of primary healthcare centres (PHCs) across Lagos State
Specifically, PHSAI urged theState Government, led by Governor Sanwo-Olu, and all Local Government Chairmen across the state to prioritise sustainable funding for PHC and grassroots health systems.
The organisation stressed that primary healthcare remains the foundation for improved health outcomes and universal health coverage.
Making the call in a statement, PHSAI Chairman, Barrister Ayo Adebusoye, stated that strong and functional primary healthcare is essential for reducing maternal and child mortality and ensuring equitable access to medical services for all residents.
The statement signed by PHSAI Executive Director, Mr Abiodun Ajayi, noted with concern the condition of many primary healthcare centres in Lagos, noting that several facilities are dilapidated and lack essential equipment, manpower, and infrastructure.
The group warned that without deliberate and sustained investment in grassroots healthcare, efforts to improve public health indicators may continue to face serious setbacks across the state.
While acknowledging progress made by the Lagos State Government in healthcare delivery, PHSAI urged more strategic allocation of resources, timely release of funds, and transparent utilisation of budgets dedicated to primary healthcare.
The organisation also called for stronger accountability mechanisms to ensure that allocated resources translate into visible improvements in facilities and services, rather than remaining on paper.
PHSAI appealed to Lagos residents to become more conscious of health governance and accountability, encouraging citizens to support leaders who demonstrate genuine commitment to strengthening healthcare systems.
“As we approach future electoral cycles, particularly the 2027 general elections, it is critical that health remains a key priority in our decision-making process,” the statement read.
The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to continuous advocacy, stakeholder engagement, and evidence-based interventions aimed at improving health outcomes, especially for vulnerable populations across Lagos State.
PHSAI concluded by calling for collaborative efforts between government, civil society organisations, development partners, and community members to build a resilient, accessible, and equitable healthcare system that serves all Lagosians.
First Published by Independent Newpaper Nigeria.
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