Strengthen Primary Healthcare to combat malaria, ACOMIN tells govt

From: Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

The Civil Society in Malaria Control, Immunization and Nutrition in Nigeria (ACOMIN) has asked the federal government to allocate more resources towards strengthening primary healthcare centers to help the fight against malaria.
Kaduna State Program Officer of ACOMIN Ogidi Nicodemus asserted this during a press conference held in Kaduna yesterday, saying that the crucial role of primary healthcare centers in combating this life-threatening disease such as malaria cannot be overemphasized.
He therefore urged government officials and policymakers to prioritize and increase funding for Secondary and Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCs).
According to him, adequate financial support is crucial for these centers to deliver quality healthcare services, including prevention and treatment of infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, and others to the community.
“By allocating more resources to healthcare, governments can strengthen infrastructure, enhance workforce capacity, and ensure that essential services are accessible to all.”
The ACOMIN Program officer also called upon private organizations, philanthropic foundations, and individuals to contribute to the funding of Secondary and Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCs).
Private and philanthropic funding according to him plays a pivotal role in supplementing government resources and expanding the reach and impact of Secondary and Primary Healthcare Centers.
“By investing in Secondary and Primary Healthcare Centers, these stakeholders can support the provision of comprehensive healthcare services, to underserved communities.
Religious organizations and leaders should invest in Primary Healthcare.
“We encourage religious leaders to invest in healthcare at the community level as they have the power to influence and mobilize communities towards positive change. Through their leadership and guidance, they can help ensure that communities are integrated into the healthcare response, fostering a sense of ownership and accountability.”