The World Bank has supported the Kwara State government in revitalizing 83 primary health centres through its IMPACT project and other funds. This initiative aims to improve access to quality healthcare across the state. Officials highlighted the upgrades and their impact on maternal and child health during the launch in Ilorin.
In a significant boost to Kwara State's healthcare system, the World Bank, via its IMPACT project, has helped revitalize 70 primary health centres (PHCs) statewide. An additional 13 PHCs were upgraded using funds from the Basic Health Care Provision Funds under the Kwara State Project HOPE, along with proceeds from the state's 2023 and 2024 Leadership Challenge Fund Awards. The total of 83 facilities was launched in Ilorin on Monday by Prof. Nusirat Elelu, Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Primary Health Care Development Agency.
Elelu emphasized the broader significance, stating, “It represents our renewed commitment to bringing quality healthcare to the doorsteps of our people.” She detailed the enhancements: each centre now operates as a standard Level Two PHC, featuring functional labour rooms, immunisation units with cold chain systems, antenatal and postnatal care, laboratories, pharmacies, essential medicines, solar-powered electricity, motorised boreholes for clean water, perimeter fencing, and staff quarters for round-the-clock service.
The governor's consistent support in the health sector contributed to Kwara winning the PHC Leadership Challenge Fund Award three consecutive times. Elelu shared impressive statistics: over 722,000 outpatients visited PHCs, with more than 30,000 deliveries recorded—up from 8,020 in 2020. Additionally, over 500,000 pregnant women received haematinics, compared to 120,000 in 2020, and 1.6 million children benefited from Vitamin A outreach, versus just over 100,000 previously. “These are not just statistics; they represent people whose futures have been secured,” she added.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq attributed the World Bank's confidence to his administration's focus on accessible healthcare, fulfilling campaign promises. He noted inheriting a dilapidated system and partnering with entities like the World Bank and UNICEF through timely funding. “These facilities represent hope, dignity, and our determination to bridge the healthcare divide between urban and rural areas,” AbdulRazaq said. Pregnant women, children, youth, and the elderly will now access services closer to home.
Dr. Amina Abdul-One Muhammed, the project's National Programme Manager, encouraged community utilization while warning against vandalism of these multimillion-naira investments.