Despite Gov. Otu's ₦8 Billion Health Budget, Over 35 PHCs still in shameful conditions – Report

 

The report uncovered widespread structural decay and a lack of essential medical infrastructure. Out of the 62 PHCs assessed, 55% had leaking roofs, 47% had broken ceilings, and 53% had damaged doors, making effective healthcare delivery nearly impossible.

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At least 35 primary health centres (PHCs) in Cross River State are in deplorable conditions and lack medical equipment, despite a health budget exceeding N8 billion. 

This was revealed in a recent report by Orodata Science, a civic tech organisation.

The report uncovered widespread structural decay and a lack of essential medical infrastructure. Out of the 62 PHCs assessed, 55% had leaking roofs, 47% had broken ceilings, and 53% had damaged doors, making effective healthcare delivery nearly impossible.

In addition to the physical deterioration, the report also highlighted a severe shortage of medical equipment. 

Alarmingly, 44% of PHCs lacked functional hospital beds, 61% had damaged tables, and 84% struggled with broken or missing medical records. Basic necessities such as clean water and reliable electricity supply were also absent in many of these facilities, further compounding the healthcare crisis.

Some of the worst-affected primary health centres (PHCs) include Abuekpo-Mpam Lagos Health Post in Ogoja, Primary Health Care Centre Ifiang Nsung in Bakassi, and Efut Esighi Health Care Centre, also in Bakassi. 

Other severely impacted PHCs include the Primary Health Care Centre in Ekukunela 2, Ikom, and the Health Centre in Okarara, Akamkpa. These facilities suffer from equally poor infrastructure, making it challenging for healthcare workers to provide even the most basic services.

Perhaps the most damning revelation is that 35 out of the 62 PHCs assessed scored below 50% on the Infrastructure Index. 

This metric evaluates key facilities such as perimeter fencing, water supply, power availability, hospital bed capacity, number of consulting rooms, and access to essential medical equipment. Any PHC scoring below this threshold essentially operates under substandard conditions, putting lives at risk.

Cross River State, like many other Nigerian states, has long struggled with inadequate healthcare infrastructure. While successive administrations have made lofty promises about improving healthcare services, the reality on the ground tells a different story.

The government’s budgetary allocations have not translated into improved facilities, raising questions about accountability in public health spending.

The report reads: “Even more concerning, 35 out of the 62 PHCs assessed fall below the 50% Infrastructure Index. This metric reflects key factors such as perimeter fencing, availability of clean water, power supply, hospital bed ratings, number of consulting rooms, and availability of essential medical equipment. 

“A PHC falling below this threshold means patients are being treated in substandard conditions, where even the most basic healthcare needs are not adequately met. 

“When we talk about improving healthcare, it cannot be limited to staffing alone. Without functioning facilities, even the best-trained healthcare professionals cannot deliver quality care.

“Yet with an over eight billion naira (N8 billion) approved budget for total capital health sector expenditure in the State. This data points to an urgent need for investment in rehabilitation, medical equipment, and infrastructure upgrades across PHCs in Cross River State. 

“In addition, this is a call to action to Governor Prince Bassey Edet Otu for a proper monitoring and evaluation system for the health projects to be audited and effectively reported. Healthcare delivery cannot thrive in broken spaces. A system meant to save lives should not itself be in need of rescue.”


— Sahara Reporters