Dr. Paul Ogwuche, the Commissioner for Health and Human Services in Benue State, has criticized contractors for stalling on the renovation of six Primary Health Care centers. He has ordered them to increase the pace of construction while strictly adhering to quality guidelines. These renovations, supported by UNICEF and the Global Fund, are designed to boost maternal and child health services for vulnerable populations, including pregnant women and young children.
Grace Akure, Information Officer for the Benue State Primary Health Care Board, noted that the commissioner issued these instructions during a site visit to six Local Government Areas. During this tour, he observed that the projects had already surpassed their six-week completion deadline. Dr. Ogwuche identified specific construction flaws, such as improper roofing and layout errors, and ordered immediate corrections.
The affected facilities include PHCs in Gboko, Gwer East, Logo, Otukpo, Ogbadibo, and Oju. While the Otukpo facility is being entirely rebuilt, the others are receiving renovations and expansions. Samuel Mbatsoron, Acting Executive Secretary of the Board, personally oversaw the instruction to replace sub-standard roofing at the Gboko location. In response, the contractors admitted to the delays and committed to finalizing all work by July 30, 2026. The inspection team included representatives from the National Primary Health Care Development Agency and UNICEF.
