Anambra State has emerged the second-best performing state in the South-East zone at the 2025 National Primary Health Care (PHC) Leadership Challenge Awards.
The award ceremony, held in Abuja, was organised by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum.
The event was in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency and UNICEF, with support from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
The initiative was designed to promote accountability and healthy competition among states, with a view to improving health outcomes and the quality of primary healthcare delivery at the grassroots.
Anambra, which finished as first runner-up in the South-East category, received a cash award of 400,000 dollars.
Dr Afam Obidike, the state Commissioner for Health, disclosed this in an interview with journalists.
Obidike described the recognition as a validation of the commitment of Gov. Chukwuma Soludo’s administration to strengthening the state’s health sector.
“This recognition is a product of Gov. Soludo’s vision of building a robust, efficient and people-centred healthcare system.
“It reflects the hard work, discipline and accountability of our health workforce and partners,” he said.
The commissioner said the funds would be judiciously utilised to consolidate gains in primary healthcare delivery, improve service quality and expand access to essential health services, particularly at the grassroots.
He commended healthcare workers, implementing agencies, development partners and community stakeholders for their dedication
He also reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to providing accessible, affordable and high-quality healthcare for all residents.
