A civic technology platform, MonitNG, has sounded the alarm over the appalling state of the Primary Healthcare Centre in Golonga, Sakace Ward, Shanga Local Government Area of Kebbi State. According to MonitNG, the facility lacks basic amenities, including beds, clean water, and electricity, with a severely damaged roof on the verge of collapse. This has created a constant sense of fear, especially for mothers and children seeking care.
Patients are forced to lie on bare mats, and the situation reflects a profound failure to uphold the basic right to healthcare for rural communities. MonitNG noted that under former Governor Atiku Bagudu, 134 primary health centers were renovated, yet Golonga was inexplicably excluded. As a result, preventable diseases like cholera, with 875 reported cases in Kebbi in 2024 alone, and maternal deaths continue to rise due to the lack of basic equipment for antenatal care and emergency treatment.
The situation is further compounded by the fact that billions of naira have been allocated to healthcare, and funding from major donors like USAID and the Gates Foundation has been received. However, facilities like Golonga Health Post remain deserted and neglected, overshadowed by the focus on urban centers. MonitNG questioned how these funds have failed to make an impact and why expectant mothers should endure life-threatening conditions in a facility lacking essential prenatal care tools.
MonitNG has demanded immediate intervention from the state government, starting with the immediate renovation of Golonga Health Post. The facility needs a complete overhaul to ensure a safe and secure environment for patients. This includes providing proper beds, clean water, and electricity to support basic healthcare services.
In addition to renovation, the facility requires essential medical equipment for antenatal care and emergency treatment. This would help prevent maternal deaths and reduce the risk of complications during childbirth. Furthermore, trained healthcare professionals should be deployed to the facility to ensure quality care.
The demands made by MonitNG are justified, and the state government must take concrete steps to address this situation. By prioritizing healthcare infrastructure and services, the government can help improve the health and well-being of rural communities. The government should provide a clear plan for implementing these improvements and ensuring that healthcare funding is effectively utilized.
The deplorable condition of the Golonga Primary Healthcare Centre is a stark reminder of the need for improved healthcare infrastructure in rural Kebbi State. The state government must take immediate action to address this situation and ensure that rural communities have access to quality healthcare services.
The people of Kebbi State deserve better healthcare, and it’s the responsibility of the government to provide it. By working together, the government and stakeholders can improve the healthcare system and ensure that rural communities receive the care they need.
In conclusion, the Kebbi State Government must take immediate action to address the deplorable condition of the Golonga Primary Healthcare Centre. By prioritizing healthcare infrastructure and services, the government can help prevent further loss of life and ensure that rural communities have access to quality healthcare services.
The government must also be transparent about its plans and progress in addressing the situation. Regular updates and progress reports would help build trust and confidence in the government’s commitment to improving healthcare services.
Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that rural communities have access to quality healthcare services that meet their needs. By working together, this goal can be achieved, and the people of Kebbi State can receive the care they deserve.
The situation in Golonga is a call to action for the government and stakeholders to prioritize healthcare infrastructure and services in rural areas. By doing so, we can build a healthier and more prosperous society for all.
