Traditional Institutions Key To Better Healthcare Delivery, Says Asagba Azinge
Asagba of Asaba Advocates Stronger Primary Healthcare Through Community Partnerships
Monarch Backs Improved Healthcare Planning
THE Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty Prof. Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, SAN, OON, has reaffirmed the critical role of primary healthcare in improving public health outcomes, urging greater investment in planning, research and community-based healthcare delivery across Delta State.
The monarch made the call while receiving the Director of Planning, Research and Statistics of the Delta State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr. Charles Eboka, and his delegation at the royal palace in Asaba.
He described primary healthcare as the foundation of every effective health system, stressing that accessible, affordable and quality healthcare must begin at the community level.
Primary Healthcare Remains First Line of Defence
Prof. Azinge noted that a functional primary healthcare system serves as the first point of contact for most citizens and plays a vital role in disease prevention, early diagnosis and the delivery of essential medical services.
According to him, strengthening preventive healthcare, improving planning and promoting evidence-based policymaking would significantly enhance healthcare delivery and improve the well-being of residents throughout Delta State.
He also emphasised the importance of research and accurate health data in shaping sustainable healthcare policies capable of addressing emerging public health challenges.
Collaboration with Traditional Institutions
The Asagba commended the Delta State Primary Healthcare Development Agency for its efforts to improve healthcare services and called for closer collaboration between government agencies, traditional rulers and community stakeholders.
He said traditional institutions possess unique influence within local communities and can support government programmes through public health advocacy, community mobilisation and awareness campaigns.
The monarch assured the agency of the palace’s continued support for initiatives aimed at expanding healthcare access within Asaba Kingdom.
Agency Seeks Support for New Health Centre
Earlier, Dr. Charles Eboka expressed appreciation to the Asagba for receiving the delegation and acknowledged the monarch’s consistent support for developmental projects in the kingdom.
He highlighted ongoing initiatives by the agency to strengthen healthcare planning, research, monitoring and service delivery across Delta State.
Dr. Eboka also appealed to the monarch to assist in securing land for the construction of a Primary Healthcare Centre in Umuezei Quarters, explaining that the community remains the only ward in Asaba without such a facility.
He said establishing the centre would improve healthcare access for residents and support the state’s drive toward universal primary healthcare coverage.
Renewed Commitment to Community Health
The visit concluded with both the traditional institution and the agency reaffirming their commitment to building a more responsive, people-centred primary healthcare system.
Stakeholders expressed optimism that stronger collaboration between government and traditional authorities would enhance healthcare accessibility, strengthen preventive care and improve the quality of life for communities across Asaba Kingdom and Delta State.
