The Niger State House of Assembly Standing Committee on Health, Nutrition, and Primary Health Care has expressed serious concerns over the excessive pressure placed on healthcare facilities in Minna due to the high number of students seeking medical attention at the centers.

 

Chairman of the committee, Hon. Umar Nasir, who represents Paikoro Constituency, made the disclosure during an oversight visit to several level-two primary healthcare facilities in the state capital. He noted that the overcrowding at these centers is undermining service delivery and compromising professional healthcare standards.

 

“This visit is a significant step towards ensuring that the healthcare system in the state is functioning effectively and efficiently,” Hon. Nasir said.

 

 

 

He explained that the oversight visit was part of the committee’s legislative responsibilities to support the executive arm in delivering quality healthcare to residents, emphasizing that the review would not be limited to Minna but extended to other areas across the state.

 

The committee visited several facilities, including:

 

Idris Ibrahim Kuta Memorial Primary Health Care Centre

 

Lafiya Jari, Soje B Kpakungu

 

Taimakon Juna GPMC

 

Peter Sarki Road Health Centre

 

Niger State Ministry of Primary Health Care

 

 

The committee chairman promised that a comprehensive report would be presented to the House during plenary, containing findings and actionable recommendations aimed at strengthening the state’s primary healthcare system.

 

“This report will undoubtedly provide valuable insights and recommendations for improving the healthcare system in the state,” Nasir added.

 

 

 

Commissioner for Primary Health Care, Dr. Ibrahim Ahmed Dangana, who received the committee, praised the legislature for its proactive approach. He emphasized that the oversight initiative is crucial for ensuring accountability, improving service delivery, and building public confidence in the healthcare system.

 

“This collaboration between the executive and legislature is a welcome development in the pursuit of improved health outcomes for our people,” Dangana stated.

 

 

 

Facility heads, including Hadiza Ahmed of the Idris Ibrahim Kuta Centre and Aminu Shehu of Lafiya Jari Soje B Kpakungu, highlighted key challenges such as staff shortages, lack of solar-powered electricity, and limited resources. They expressed appreciation for the visit and pledged to act on the committee’s observations.

 

The oversight visit underscores the Niger State Assembly’s commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery through collaboration, transparency, and evidence-based policy recommendations. As the committee prepares its final report, it is expected that their findings will drive tangible reforms aimed at reducing pressure on overstretched facilities and improving healthcare services across the state.