Jiwa Community Appeals for Improved Healthcare Access

Residents of Jiwa, a rural community on the outskirts of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), are calling for improved healthcare facilities, lamenting the lack of a standard hospital to address their medical needs.

The community, predominantly made up of farmers and traders, is facing significant challenges, including low awareness of health insurance schemes and their benefits, particularly among women.

In response to these concerns, El-Tabib Pharmaceuticals Limited, in collaboration with the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), organised a medical outreach in Jiwa to sensitise residents about the importance of prioritising their health.

Speaking at the event, Dr Emeka Udezue, representing El-Tabib Pharmaceuticals, stressed the need for rural communities to be included in the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). He highlighted the potential benefits of such inclusion, which could improve access to healthcare and essential medications.

“If the health insurance scheme can reach their level, either through the National Insurance Scheme or the FCT Insurance Scheme, access to care and availability of drugs will improve significantly. This would enable them to understand their health conditions, manage them effectively, and adopt healthier lifestyles, ultimately leading to happier lives,” Dr Udezue stated.

He further urged all levels of government to encourage grassroots enrolment in health insurance schemes, ensuring uninterrupted access to healthcare services.

Mr. Sylvester Udeh, the North Central State Coordinator for NPHCDA, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to extending quality healthcare services to underserved populations. He described the outreach as part of the federal government’s agenda to enhance healthcare delivery at the grassroots level.

“This initiative aligns with the vision of our Executive Director, Dr Muyi Aina, to ensure efficient and accessible primary healthcare services for all, particularly in rural areas,” Mr Udeh explained.

The Madaki of Jiwa, Mallam Tanko Nuhu, expressed gratitude to the organisers of the outreach and appealed to the government to address the community’s urgent need for a hospital.

“We want the government to build a hospital for my people. We only have one health centre, and it is not enough for us,” he lamented.

In addition to Jiwa, two other FCT communities—Kaida Tsoho in Gwagwalada Area Council and Jiwa under Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC)—benefited from the outreach, which aimed to bridge the gap in healthcare access for rural populations.

Ifeoma Nwovu