The Federal Government has pledged that no certified Community Health Officer (CHO) will remain unemployed, reaffirming its commitment to bridging the health divide between urban and rural Nigeria.
The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Joachin Okafor made this declaration on Tuesday during the 5th Induction and Oath-Taking Ceremony for new CHOs in Abuja.
Salako acknowledged the significant strides made in Nigeria’s healthcare system but pointed out that challenges like workforce shortages, infrastructure gaps and the uneven distribution of healthcare resources continue to hinder progress.
He emphasised that these issues are most pronounced in rural areas, where more than 60 percent of Nigeria’s population resides.
“You are not just healthcare providers, but the bridge between government policies and the realities of grassroots health,” he told the new inductees. He highlighted the vital role of CHOs as the first line of defense in these communities, particularly in promoting preventive care and health education.
The minister also underscored the government’s commitment to Universal Health Coverage (UHC), viewing it as a basic right for every Nigerian. He noted that the administration of President Bola Tinubu is actively implementing policies aimed at achieving UHC, including the revitalisation of 10,000 primary healthcare centres (PHCs) across the country.
“The government’s policy is clear: no CHO should be unemployed. We are committed to deploying and empowering community health workers to address healthcare needs, particularly in underserved regions,” he said.
Salako also discussed the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), which aims to enroll 50 million Nigerians by 2027. He stressed that CHOs would play a crucial role in the success of this initiative, particularly through grassroots mobilisation.
In addition to deployment efforts, the Minister highlighted ongoing support for the Community Health Practitioners Registration Board of Nigeria (CHPRBN) to ensure rigorous standards and continued professional development for CHOs.
To the new inductees, he urged them to embrace their certification as a “national calling” and to serve with integrity, compassion and innovation. He concluded by calling on Nigerians to prioritise preventive healthcare and support the work of community health practitioners in their local areas.
