Oyo strengthens primary healthcare with new tech for 66 centres
By Adejayan Gbenga –
The Oyo State Government, in partnership with First Health Dynamic Synergy International Limited, has strengthened primary healthcare delivery in the state by providing mobile phones and communication directories to 66 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs). The initiative is aimed at improving data management, enhancing coordination and bolstering early detection and response to public health threats.
Speaking on Thursday during the presentation ceremony in Ibadan, the firm’s Chief Executive Officer, Prof. Temitope Alonge, said the devices are designed to enable seamless communication across PHCs and allow centres to handle multiple calls simultaneously. He emphasised that primary healthcare is the closest medical touchpoint for residents, making timely information exchange critical in responding to emergencies.
Prof. Alonge highlighted the importance of the upgrade ahead of the dry season, which typically increases the risk of Lassa fever outbreaks. He urged health workers to use the devices to report suspected cases promptly, helping to prevent widespread transmission.
He recalled a 2003 assessment of PHCs in the state, which identified structural and operational gaps and guided the selection of facilities for the upgrade. Two PHCs were chosen from each of the 33 local government areas, prioritising centres serving large populations and those with stable water and electricity supply.
Alonge outlined a three-phase upgrade strategy. The first phase involved installing 10KVA solar inverter systems to ensure uninterrupted power. The second phase provided durable red-brick incinerators for the safe disposal of medical waste. The third phase delivered computer tablets to each PHC, enabling real-time data entry and digital management of patient records.
Oyo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, commended the initiative, describing it as a timely improvement to the state’s primary healthcare system. She credited Governor Seyi Makinde for creating an enabling environment that encourages innovation and supports community-level healthcare delivery.
Beneficiaries from PHCs in Akinyele, Egbeda, Ibadan North, Ibadan North-East, Ibadan North-West, Ibadan South-East, Ibadan South-West, Ido, Lagelu, Oluyole, and Ona-Ara LGAs received the gadgets in the first batch. Frontline workers praised the intervention, noting that it would improve communication efficiency and enhance service delivery across communities.
Mrs Akindaini Bolanle of Ofa-Igbo PHC expressed gratitude to the state government, the Ministry of Health, and Prof. Alonge, describing the project as a welcome development for healthcare workers and a major advancement in emergency response and inter-facility collaboration.
