UBIAJA – Primary Healthcare Centres across Edo State would soon begin to function at their optimum, following directives from the state government to the local government councils to adhere to specific standards.

The chairman of Esan South East Local Government council, Hon. Victor Emuakhagbon gave the hint while speaking with The NIGERIAN OBSERVER at Ubiaja when he flagged off a free medical outreach sponsored by the Lift Above Poverty Organisation (LAPO).

Hon. Emuakhagbon stated that the state governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki has directed the council chairmen in the state to give priority to Primary Healthcare to enhance the health conditions of the rural populace.

Consequently, the council boss said plans were in motion to turn around the 20 Primary Healthcare Centres of his local government, to make them functional and be able to render health services they were established for.

He added that concerted efforts were being made by his administration to ensure constant availability of drugs at the various PHCs, explaining that he hoped to achieve that through a revolving fund that would be provided by his leadership.

Emuakhagbon said enthusiastically that the health care of his people was of great interest to his administration, hence would do all he can to ensure the people got the deserved good health.

“We are taking a cue from the governor who told us that one of the primary areas he wants us to concentrate is Primary Healthcare. There are going to be standards for all PHCs in the state.

“As a local government chairman, the healthcare of our people is one of our primary responsibility. We will do all we can to make sure people get the deserved good health”, he enthused.

He similarly disclosed that plans were under way to register adults of 60 years and above, with a view to ensuring constant health check.

The council chairman also revealed that his council was reaching out to international organisations such as World Health Organisation (WHO) and the European Union (EU) to provide assistance in the area of building health infrastructures.