Civic accountability platform, MonITNG, has called on the Niger State Government to urgently intervene in the worsening condition of the Basic Health Center in Kwamba, Suleja Local Government Area.
In a statement addressed to Governor Umar Bago, the organisation described the state of the health facility as dangerous and unfit for both patients and healthcare workers.
“This is the dilapidated state of the Basic Health Center in Kwamba, Suleja, Niger State. The facility is in urgent need of government intervention as parts of the structure have developed deep cracks and risk collapsing at any moment. Patients and health workers are forced to use the center despite the dangers, as there are no alternatives nearby,” it said.
MonITNG further highlighted how the lack of electricity has compounded the crisis, saying, “The situation is further worsened by the fact that the mini-grid solar light, which serves as the only reliable source of electricity in the clinic, has been vandalized.
“This leaves the facility in total darkness at night, making it unsafe for both patients and staff, especially during emergencies.”
The group also expressed concern about the leaking roof and damaged ceilings, noting that the wards and consultation areas are flooded.
“The ceilings are falling apart, exposing patients and workers to additional health hazards. These conditions make it almost impossible to provide quality healthcare services to residents of Kwamba and surrounding communities who depend on this center as their only option,” it said.
According to MonITNG, the situation exposes a contradiction in the government’s public claims about prioritising healthcare.
It said, “This reality stands in stark contrast to the claims by the Niger State Government. Recently, the government announced that 70% of the state’s budget has been allocated to education and health.
“Yet, communities like Kwamba are left with healthcare facilities that are not only inadequate but unsafe. If 70% of the budget is truly going into these critical sectors, why then do residents still lack access to quality health facilities?
“Adding to the contradictions, the government also claimed to be constructing 20 Primary Health Centers across 20 Local Government Areas in the state.
“However, existing facilities like the one in Kwamba remain abandoned and deteriorating. It raises serious questions about government priorities, transparency, and accountability in project execution.”
The organisation warned that neglecting facilities like the Kwamba Basic Health Center puts lives at risk.
“Healthcare is a fundamental right, and residents of Niger State deserve better,” it said.
“Allowing health centers to decay to this extent puts lives at risk and undermines trust in public institutions. Government at all levels must ensure that funds allocated to health are properly utilized, that existing health facilities are renovated, equipped, and staffed, and that promises made to the people translate into visible, tangible impact.”
MonITNG urged the state government to act swiftly before lives are lost.
“The people of Kwamba are calling on the Niger State Government to urgently step in and rehabilitate this Basic Health Center. Anything short of immediate action risks a tragedy that could have been prevented,” it added.