Ogun State has emerged as the first runner-up in the South-West zone at the third edition of the Primary Health Care Leadership Challenge Award, organized by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum. The state secured a $400,000 prize, recognizing its sustained reforms and investments in primary healthcare delivery. This marks the second consecutive year Ogun has achieved this zonal position.
Commissioner Coker Hails Governor Abiodun’s ReformsOgun State Commissioner for Health, Tomi Coker, described the award as a strong validation of the Abiodun administration’s deliberate and strategic investments in primary healthcare. “This award is dedicated to our hardworking governor, His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, whose strategic health sector reforms have focused on expanding access to quality healthcare services, particularly at the grassroots,” she stated.
Coker highlighted specific achievements, noting, “For instance, the rehabilitation, upgrading and equipping of primary healthcare centres across the 20 local government areas have significantly improved service delivery, especially in maternal, newborn and child health.”
The commissioner also emphasized human capital development, stating that the state government had prioritized the recruitment and continuous training of health professionals, including doctors, nurses, midwives, and community health workers, to ensure efficient and patient-centred care at the primary level. She added that the expansion of the Ogun State Health Insurance Scheme had helped reduce out-of-pocket spending and increase access to affordable healthcare services, particularly for vulnerable and underserved populations.
Elijah Ogunsola, Executive Secretary of the Ogun State Primary Health Care Development Board, described the award as a testament to strong leadership, effective coordination, and teamwork within the state’s primary healthcare system. He noted that under the current administration, the board had implemented strategic initiatives targeted at revitalising primary healthcare centres, improving disease surveillance, strengthening routine immunisation, and enhancing community engagement across the state.
Ogunsola attributed Ogun’s improved performance in key health indicators to evidence-based planning, robust monitoring systems, strong collaboration with chairmen of the 20 local government areas, and productive partnerships with development partners and other stakeholders in the health sector. He reaffirmed the board’s commitment, adding that efforts would be intensified to ensure every community in the state has access to functional, well-equipped, and adequately staffed primary healthcare facilities.
The PHC Leadership Challenge Award recognizes states demonstrating innovation, accountability, and political will in strengthening primary healthcare systems nationwide. Ogun’s emergence as South-West runner-up aligns with its growing reputation as a model for sub-national leadership in healthcare, driven by Governor Dapo Abiodun’s vision for a responsive and resilient system. While Coker commended the organizers, stating the recognition would spur deeper reforms toward universal health coverage, the event in Abuja also saw Yobe State win the national top prize of $1.2 million.
