The Gombe State Chapter of the National Association of Community Health Practitioners of Nigeria held its annual workshop with the theme, ‘Strengthening Primary Health Care in Fulfilment of the SWAp Agenda: The roles and contributions of community health practitioners for quality service delivery and better health outcomes in Gombe State.’
The workshop, which was held at the Gombe State University Medical College, adjacent to the Federal Teaching Hospital, was graced by Commissioner for Health, Dr Habu Dahiru, who also served as the Chief Host and representative of the Secretary to Government of the State.
PERISCOPE NIGERIA reports that the event featured a paper presentation by Dr Wade on the theme of the workshop and brought together stakeholders in the health sector, including community health practitioners and government officials.
In an address, the Special Guest of Honour, Professor Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi, represented by Commissioner of Health Dr Habu Dahiru, underscored the importance of Primary Health Care as the cornerstone of a resilient healthcare system, emphasising that it is at this level where the most vulnerable populations can be reached.
He highlighted the State-Wide Approach Programme (SWAp) adopted by Gombe State, which seeks to ensure that health services are accessible, equitable, and of the highest quality.
“The role of Community Health Practitioners in strengthening Primary Health Care cannot be overemphasised. You are the front-line workers who interact with our communities daily, delivering essential services, educating the populace, and ensuring that no one is left behind. Your contributions are crucial in making the SWAp agenda a reality in Gombe State,” Njodi stated.
He said the government is working tirelessly to ensure that health facilities are adequately equipped, that there is continuous training and capacity building for health workers, and that policies are in place to support the work of the community health practitioners.
In his remarks, the Executive Secretary of the Gombe State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr Abdulrahman Shuaibu, commended the efforts of the community health practitioners in improving the well-being of people in the state. He recognised their critical role and hard work in preventing outbreaks of diseases and pledged the agency’s support in terms of training, retraining, and promotions.
The representative of the Vice Chancellor of Gombe State University, Professor Joshua Abubakar Difa, advised the participants to continually develop themselves through training and retraining to stay updated on emerging health issues.
The State Chairman of NACHPN, Abdulkarim Aliyu, reaffirmed the commitment of community health practitioners to the SWAP agenda.
He acknowledged the challenges faced by practitioners, including limited resources and inadequate infrastructure, but stressed that these hurdles also present opportunities for growth and innovation.
“Community Health Practitioners are the backbone of Primary Health Care. We are the first point of contact for many in our communities, especially those in rural and underserved areas. Our work is critical in ensuring that the health system is responsive, equitable, and sustainable,” Aliyu said.
Aliyu called on the government and stakeholders to continue supporting community health practitioners, emphasising that their roles are vital in achieving better health outcomes for the people of Gombe State.
During the workshop, discussions focused on the need for continuous training and capacity building for health workers, improving working conditions, and mobilising resources more effectively to support the SWAP agenda.
