A former lawmaker in Osun State, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has cautioned state governors against misappropriating the funds allocated by President Bola Tinubu for the rehabilitation of primary healthcare centres nationwide.
President Tinubu recently released N260 billion for the revitalization of PHCs across the country, distributing the funds through the state governors.
In a statement released to journalists in Osogbo on Sunday, Oyintiloye emphasized the urgent need for this revitalization, particularly in light of the recent cholera outbreaks in some regions of Nigeria. He pointed out that PHCs serve as the first point of contact for individuals, families, and communities. However, many PHCs currently lack the capacity to provide essential healthcare services due to challenges such as inadequate equipment, poor working conditions, insufficient infrastructure, lack of staff, and essential drugs.
“I commend the president for prioritising the health of Nigerians with the release of N260 billion to revitalise the dilapidated PHCs in the country.
“The only fear I have now is how this fund will not be diverted by the governors at this critical period of cholera outbreak.
“The PHCs in the country are currently at their worst level, and that is why the fund released for their revitalisation must not be allowed to be mismanaged.
“Since all the states of the federation have been mobilised for the revitalisation of the PHCs, governors should not allow greed to prevent them from doing the right thing.”
Oyintiloye’s warning underscores the importance of ensuring that the allocated funds are used effectively to improve healthcare infrastructure and services, which are crucial for managing public health crises and enhancing the overall health of the population.
