The Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Primary Health Care Board (LSPHCB), Dr. Ibrahim Akinwunmi Mustafa, mni, has emphasized the critical role of primary healthcare (PHC) as the foundation of effective health service delivery and disease prevention.
Eko Hot News reports that Dr. Mustafa described primary healthcare as the first point of care for citizens, noting that it often determines the difference between timely treatment and avoidable disease outbreaks or health emergencies.
According to him, strong and functional PHCs directly translate to healthier and more resilient communities, while weak primary healthcare systems expose families to preventable illnesses and public health risks.
He explained that PHC facilities represent the closest point of contact between government and the people, making them essential to grassroots health delivery and public trust in the healthcare system.
Dr. Mustafa noted that primary healthcare centres are often the first places families turn to when a child falls ill, a pregnant woman requires antenatal care, or parents seek routine immunization for their children.
He stressed that effective PHC services are crucial for early detection of illnesses, maternal and child health care, disease prevention, and health education at the community level.
The Permanent Secretary added that sustained investment in infrastructure, skilled personnel, essential drugs, and community engagement is key to strengthening primary healthcare across Lagos State.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Lagos State Government to improving PHC services as part of broader efforts to enhance public health outcomes and reduce preventable deaths.
Dr. Mustafa urged stakeholders to continue supporting initiatives that strengthen PHC systems, noting that accessible and responsive primary healthcare remains the backbone of a functional health sector.
