By Habiba Onakpa Ibrahim
In what has been described as a defining moment for grassroots development in Kogi State, Hon. Adams Adabenege, the Executive Chairman of the Kogi State Local Government Service Commission, has commended Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo for spearheading what he called a “Primary Health Care Revolution” across the 21 local government areas of the state.
The commendation followed the recent commissioning of newly renovated and fully equipped primary health centres under the state’s ambitious health reform agenda. The initiative, which aligns with Governor Ododo’s commitment to deliver quality healthcare to every Kogite, has been hailed as one of the most impactful grassroots development drives in recent years.
For decades, rural communities in Kogi State have struggled with inadequate health facilities, shortage of personnel, and poor access to essential medicines. Many of these primary health centres originally designed to be the first point of contact between citizens and the healthcare system had fallen into disrepair.
But all that is changing under Governor Ododo’s administration. The state government on friday, 7th November, Commissioned the 80 revitalised primary health care centres across the 21 local government areas, each equipped with modern infrastructure, solar-powered electricity, staff quarters, water facilities, and essential medical equipment.
This, Hon. Adabenege said, represents “a new dawn for community healthcare delivery” and a bold statement of intent from a government that prioritises human welfare above politics.
Speaking to the information Officer in Lokoja, Hon. Adabenege described Governor Ododo’s vision as a “game-changer” that will reposition local government administration as a true engine of development.
According to him, the governor’s investment in the health sector shows a deep understanding that sustainable development begins with healthy citizens.
“His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has shown uncommon commitment to improving the lives of our people,” Adabenege said. “By transforming our primary health centres, he has not only restored confidence in public healthcare but also strengthened the bond between government and the grassroots.”
He added that the initiative will significantly reduce the burden on tertiary hospitals, improve maternal and child health outcomes, and create safer environments for healthcare workers across the state.
At the newly upgraded PHC in Lokoja Local Government Area, community members could not hide their joy. Expectant mothers spoke of improved antenatal services, while local nurses praised the government for providing better working tools and
quarters.
Mrs. Hadiza Ibrahim, a midwife at one of the commissioned centres, expressed her gratitude:
“Before now, we worked in darkness during emergencies. Today, we have solar power, running water, and modern delivery equipment. It feels like a miracle.”
Such testimonies reflect the human impact of what Hon. Adabenege referred to as the “Ododo Effect” — a leadership style that combines empathy with pragmatic action.
Experts have often warned that revitalising health facilities must go hand in hand with sustainability measures — including regular drug supplies, routine maintenance, and continuous training for health workers.
In response, Hon. Adabenege assured that the Commission, under his watch, will work closely with the Ministry of Health and local government councils to institutionalise maintenance culture and accountability frameworks at the grassroots.
“The Governor has laid the foundation,” he said. “It is now our duty as local government administrators to ensure that this foundation continues to support the wellbeing of our people for generations.”
Hon. Adams Adabenege’s words of praise echo the sentiments of many Kogites — a deep sense of gratitude and renewed faith in a government that listens, acts, and delivers.
