RSPHCMB Prioritises Leadership Development In Primary Health Care Delivery

The Rivers State Primary Health Care Management Board (RSPHCMB) has stated that strengthening leadership and management capacity is critical to sustaining investments in primary health care and improving the quality of health services across Rivers State.

The Executive Secretary of the Board, Dr. Chituru Adele, made this known during a three-day Capacity Building Workshop on Health Quality, Leadership and Management held at the University of Port Harcourt.

He said Rivers State has made significant investments in revitalising primary health care facilities, resulting in expanded access to essential health services.

According to him, the state has recorded notable improvements in health infrastructure, equipment, and service delivery across primary health care facilities.

He, however, stressed that sustaining these achievements requires strong leadership and effective management.

“Effective leadership is the cornerstone of a resilient and high-performing primary health care system. Quality health care begins with quality leadership. Every decision we make, every system we strengthen, and every team we inspire ultimately impacts the lives of the people we serve”, he said.

Speaking at the event, UNICEF Health Specialist, Dr. Abba Zakari Umar, commended the Rivers State Government and the RSPHCMB for prioritising leadership development and reitrated UNICEF’s commitment to supporting primary health care reforms in the state.

“Sustainable improvements in primary health care depend on capable leaders who can inspire teams, drive quality improvement, and ensure that every community has access to safe, equitable, and people-centred health services. UNICEF is proud to support Rivers State on this journey”, he stated.

The workshop was organised as part of activities under the UNICEF Leadership Challenge Grant awarded to Rivers State in recognition of its commitment to strengthening primary health care.

It featured technical sessions facilitated by Professor Richard Ogaji, Director of the African Centre of Excellence for Public Health and Toxicological Research (ACE-PUTOR), who trained participants on conflict management, team building, and other essential leadership competencies for effective primary health care delivery.

Organised by the RSPHCMB, under the UNICEF Leadership Challenge Grant in collaboration with the African Centre of Excellence for Public Health and Toxicological Research (ACE-PUTOR), University of Port Harcourt, the workshop brought together the Board’s senior management team and key stakeholders in the primary health care sector across Rivers State.

The training equipped participants with practical knowledge and skills in leadership, management, and quality improvement to enhance the delivery of primary health care services across the state.

• Onyiri is the Information/Public Relations Officer, RSPHCMB.