The Minister of State, Federal Capital Territory, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, has called for increased investment in primary healthcare by all tiers of government.
Speaking in Abuja on Monday at an event organized by the Society of Family Physicians of Nigeria, FCT/Keffi Chapter, to mark the 2025 World Family Doctors Day, Mahmoud emphasized the importance of strengthening healthcare systems to meet rising community health needs.
She highlighted the theme, “Building Mental Resilience in a Changing World,” as a reminder of the vital role family doctors play in supporting mental well-being amid challenges like climate change, social instability, and economic pressures.
“Family doctors are frontline caregivers,” she said. “They are uniquely positioned to provide continuous and person-centered care, encouraging early intervention and fostering resilience.”
Mahmoud reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving the capacity of family doctors and ensuring accessible primary healthcare for all.
“Not only that, family doctors are unsung heroes, working tirelessly in clinics, rural health posts, urban centres and conflict zones to deliver equitable healthcare,” she said.
The minister praised their enduring relationships with patients, describing it as “vital” for proactively managing mental health issues and chronic diseases.
She reiterated that a robust and accessible primary healthcare was more important than ever in addressing the complex health landscape marked by pandemics, chronic illnesses, and mental health crises.
She stressed the need for training, recruitment and retention of family physicians, especially in underserved and hard-to-reach communities.
Mahmoud emphasised the importance of recognising and valuing family medicine within health policy and practice frameworks.
This, according to her, will ensure sustainable health outcomes.
The chairperson of the family physicians, Dr Blessing Chukwukelu, said that Nigeria faces unique challenges, including limited access to mental health services, stigma and shortage of mental health professionals.
Chukwukelu added that family doctors could bridge the gaps by conducting initial mental health screenings, raising awareness and providing basic psychological support.
She further noted that integrating mental health services into primary care is crucial and family doctors could play a vital role in promoting mental wellness.
She reiterated the commitment of the physicians to the principles of family medicine.
