Nigeria: Barnawa PHC's Renovation Improves Care, but Growing Patient Demand Strains Services

The revitalisation of Barnawa Primary Healthcare (PHC) has given the facility a new life, attracting more patients and improving the delivery of essential health services.

"Before now there was a huge cry from the community. Thankfully, through the Chairman of Kaduna South Local Government Area (LGA), relief materials were provided for the facility because the main aim of having a clinic like this is to save lives, to assist people and to provide social services. Not just to make money," Mohammed Nadawu, Chairman of the Ward Development Committee (WDC), noted.

The facility is cleaner, brighter, and better organised, with renovated rooms, functional equipment, and improved sanitation. According to the Facility Manager, Mrs Caroline Suleiman, the Immunization Plus and Malaria Progress by Accelerating Coverage and Transforming Services (IMPACT) project helped restore the facility and improve its appearance.

However, as more residents return to the facility, limited space and inadequate staffing are threatening to undermine the progress.

The absence of a dedicated infectious disease ward is another concern, particularly for conditions such as tuberculosis that require appropriate isolation. The facility also needs more nurses, midwives and support workers as increasing patient numbers place additional pressure on existing staff.

The progress at Barnawa PHC reflects the goals of the second pillar of Nigeria's Health Sector Renewal Initiative (NHSRII), which seeks to strengthen the efficiency and quality of the health system. However, sustaining these gains will require continued investment in infrastructure, staffing, medicines, and essential services.

Government and relevant stakeholders should therefore prioritise,

The facility expansion especially dedicated wards for children and clients with contagious infections
Recruitment of additional health workers to match growing health demand.

Barnawa PHC's revitalisation shows what targeted investment can achieve. The next challenge is ensuring that the facility has the space, staff and resources needed to turn renewed community confidence into sustained access to quality healthcare.

Read the original article on Nigeria Health Watch.