By Ifeizu Joe
The federal government and Anambra State government has urged traditional rulers in the South east to work towards the promotion of primary healthcare services in their domains.
The federal government through the Executive Director and CEO National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr Fraisal Shuaib, and Anambra State governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo made the call in Awka, during the maiden Quarterly Review Meeting of the South East Traditional Rulers’ Committee (SETRC) on Primary Healthcare Delivery.
Shuaib who was represented by the Director Disease Control and Immunization (DCI), Bassey Okposen implored the monarchs to strive in ensuring efficient delivery of healthcare services in their areas.
He said: “The traditional rulers as custodians of cultural heritage possess the power to mobilize and unite communities as well as shape the health landscape in the region.
“The monarch’s endorsement of primary healthcare initiatives can significantly impact public perception and behavior.
“They can collaborate with healthcare professionals and experts, to disseminate accurate information about immunization, nutrition, family planning and other crucial aspects of primary healthcare, by dispelling doubts and promoting evidence-based practices. They can create a society that is well-informed and equipped to make informed health decisions.”
Earlier while declaring the event open, Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, represented by the Deputy, Onyeka Ibezim emphasized on the role of traditional rulers in the promotion of healthcare delivery by the monarchs.
Soludo stressed that his administration has taken a bottom-top approach towards ensuring that healthcare system in the state is functional.
Chairman of Southeast Council Of Traditional Rulers, Lawrence Agubuzu, said the monarchs would continue to promote primary healthcare delivery in the zone, saying meeting could not take place last quarter because of the general election.
He said: “We are here to show concern of traditional rulers of the South east for the health of our people. As representative of our people, whatever we decide, we make sure that the decision reach every corners of the South east.”
