The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has hailed the recent Supreme Court ruling on local governments’ autonomy as a pivotal moment for public health in Nigeria.
Director-general of the NCDC, Dr. Jide Idris made this declaration during a press conference yesterday in Abuja. Science Nigeria understands that the ruling solidifies the autonomy of local government areas (LGAs), granting them direct funding and the authority to make critical decisions independently of state governments.
Idris emphasised that this decision would significantly bolster the country’s ability to respond to outbreaks. He highlighted the crucial role that local governments play in disease surveillance, public awareness and initial health crisis responses.
“With greater autonomy, local governments can swiftly mobilise resources, implement health interventions and engage communities more effectively,” he stated.
He expressed optimism that the move would enhance the efficiency and timeliness of outbreak responses at the grassroots level. “Local governments are often the first to detect and report outbreaks, providing vital data to state and federal health authorities. They also play a crucial role in public education, vaccination campaigns, and enforcement of quarantine measures. With enhanced autonomy, these activities can be conducted more swiftly and effectively,” he said.
Idris underscored the essential role of community health workers and primary health centres managed by local governments in treating affected individuals and preventing disease spread. He urged local government leaders to seize the opportunity to strengthen their health systems in response to the ruling.
Meanwhile, an associate professor of infectious diseases and public health epidemiology at the Nasarawa State University, Dr. Ishaku Akyala commented on the ruling, noting Nigeria’s ongoing health challenges, including periodic infectious disease outbreaks. Akyala described the Supreme Court’s decision as a significant step toward fortifying a more robust and responsive public health infrastructure.
A public health expert, Dr. Gabriel Adakole emphasised the importance of coordinated efforts across local, state and federal levels in responding to outbreaks in Nigeria. Adakole highlighted the roles of local governments in surveillance, reporting, health education and community engagement, alongside the coordinating responsibilities of state governments and policy implementation by federal agencies like the NCDC.
“These coordinated roles ensure a comprehensive approach to managing and mitigating outbreaks, safeguarding public health nationwide,” he said.
The Supreme Court’s ruling on local government autonomy is seen as a transformative step for public health in Nigeria. It promises to enhance the ability of LGAs to respond swiftly and effectively to health crises, thereby strengthening the nation’s overall public health infrastructure.
