Experts Blame Poor Health Centres for Crowded Tertiary Institutions!

Experts Blame Poor Health Centres for Crowded Tertiary Institutions!

Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa

Health experts have attributed the overcrowding of secondary and tertiary health institutions in Nigeria to the persistent failure of Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) to deliver basic medical services effectively.

What We Know:

• The concerns were raised during a stakeholders’ forum on healthcare system strengthening held in Abuja.
• Many PHCs across states reportedly suffer from underfunding, lack of qualified personnel, and inadequate equipment.
• As a result, patients bypass local clinics to seek care at overcrowded teaching hospitals and specialist centres.

Quote:

“Primary healthcare is the foundation. If it keeps failing, the entire system will collapse under pressure.”
— Dr. Halima Yusuf, Public Health Specialist

Why It Matters:

• Weak PHC systems reduce access to early diagnosis and preventive care, burdening referral centres with avoidable cases.
• Tertiary hospitals face resource strain, leading to longer wait times, poor patient outcomes, and staff burnout.
• The situation undermines Nigeria’s goal of achieving universal health coverage.

What to Watch:

Implementation of PHC revitalisation programmes under the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund.

• Federal and state budget allocations to rural health infrastructure and personnel.
• Outcomes of ongoing healthcare reforms and partnerships with development agencies.

Sources:

1. National Primary Health Care Development Agency – Nov. 2, 2025
2. Stakeholders’ Forum on Health System Strengthening.

About The Author

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan

editor

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan is a dynamic journalist and editorial leader committed to excellence in news reporting and storytelling. As the Editor-in-Chief of Sele Media Africa, she ensures daily operations run smoothly while upholding the highest editorial standards. With a strong eye for detail and deep understanding of audience engagement, Marian coordinates content across platforms, guiding teams to produce compelling, timely, and credible news. Her leadership reflects the heart of Sele Media Africa’s mission—to inform, inspire, and elevate voices across the continent.

See author's posts