posted November 23, 2023
The Edo State Government has sealed a collaborative deal with the AIG-Imoukhuede Foundation, and the Private Health Sector Alliance of Nigeria with thematic focus on improving the primary healthcare system in the State.
The collaboration aims to enhance the healthcare system in the state by constructing and upgrading 18 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) across the 18 local government councils.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by representatives of the involved parties. Governor Godwin Obaseki, represented by the Secretary to Edo State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq., signed on behalf of the state government while Ofovwe Aig-Imokhuede and Dr. Tinuola Akinbolagbe, signed for Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation and the Private Health Alliance respectively.
The primary goal is to renovate and expand the existing 18 primary healthcare facilities in the state to Level Three Primary Healthcare Centres.
In his remarks, Ogie said the collaboration aligns with the state government’s initiative to establish one primary healthcare facility in each of the 192 wards across Edo State.
He said the ongoing rebuilding of the School of Health Technology is a strategic effort to provide the necessary manpower for the primary healthcare centers in the state.
Ofovwe Aig-lmoukhuede said the AIG-Imoukhuede Foundation commits N2.3 billion over five years, with N1.8 billion allocated for the renovation of selected PHCs in Edo State.
On her part, the Managing Director of Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria, Dr. Tinuola Akinbolagbe, said the intervention is expected to improve healthcare services in rural areas, thereby enhancing the quality of life. The goal is to build a resilient health system in line with the vision of the Private Health Sector Alliance.
The 18 primary healthcare centers are selected based on specific criteria, including the availability of Basic Healthcare Provision Fund, water and power supply, medical staff, and the condition of the building.
In his remarks, the Executive Secretary, Edo State Primary Health Care Development Agency (EDSPHCDA), Dr Omosigho Izedonmwen, expressed appreciation to the team for their generosity and commitment to this cause, adding, “Your willingness to partner with Edo reflects a shared vision of a healthier tomorrow.”
Importantly, this partnership reflects a multi-stakeholder approach to address healthcare challenges and improve the overall health infrastructure in Edo State.