Today, 2nd October 2025, marks exactly one year since Dr. Usman Iskilu Saleh assumed the mantle of leadership at the Nasarawa Primary Health Care Development Agency (NAPHDA) in just one year, he has steered a quiet revolution in the state’s primary healthcare landscape. His tenure, though still in its early phase, offers a promising blueprint for what determined leadership and strategic collaboration can achieve in Nigeria’s often neglected healthcare sector.

Dr. Saleh’s achievements, presented during an interactive session with journalists held on Tuesday, reveal a story of transformation grounded in vision, accountability, and grassroots engagement. Under his stewardship, no fewer than 58 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) have been revitalized, with a bold target to cover all 147 electoral wards in Nasarawa by 2027. If achieved, this would mark a historic milestone in equitable access to healthcare services across the state.

The drive to address human resource gaps also stands out. The recruitment of over 2,200 healthcare workers within two years, with special consideration for long-serving volunteers, signals a humane and inclusive approach to staffing. This not only rewards loyalty but also strengthens the workforce with individuals already embedded in the community healthcare culture.

Perhaps more notable is the state’s strategic investment in healthcare infrastructure. With ₦1 billion worth of equipment secured through support from the Federal Government, the World Bank, and Governor Abdullahi Sule’s administration, rural communities are witnessing improved access to quality care, a challenge that has long plagued Nigeria’s primary healthcare delivery.

Dr. Saleh’s reforms extend beyond bricks and mortar. The introduction of the Leadership Challenge Award has brought innovation to the table by promoting healthy competition among Local Government Areas (LGAs), thus improving service delivery. Similarly, the newly approved quarterly gubernatorial visits to PHCs reflect a commendable commitment to accountability at the highest level of state governance.

The synergy between NAPHDA and the political leadership, particularly Governor Sule’s enabling environment cannot be understated. This partnership is evidently bearing fruit and should serve as a model for other states seeking to rejuvenate their healthcare systems.

However, while the momentum is laudable, sustaining it will require consistency, funding stability, and community engagement. The true test lies not just in building or revitalizing facilities but in ensuring they remain functional, adequately staffed, and well-maintained for years to come. With Dr. Salah, we are confident that all of these goals are achievable.

As Dr. Saleh rightly acknowledged, the journey is far from over. But with the foundation already laid, Nasarawa State appears well on its way to achieving a healthcare system that is affordable, accessible, and responsive, particularly for those who need it most.

Nasarawa Eye observes that in a country where health challenges often make headlines for the wrong reasons, the primary healthcare delivery in Nasarawa under Dr. Saleh offers a glimmer of hope which in itself is a testament that with the right leadership and political will, meaningful change in health care sector is not only possible but already taking place in Nasarawa state.