The Minister of State, Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud; has called on governments at all levels for increased investments in primary healthcare across Nigeria.
The Minister stated this as the world celebrates the 2025 World Family Doctors Day,
Speaking at the event organised by the Society of Family Physicians of Nigeria, FCT/Keffi chapter held in Abuja, Mahmoud emphasised the critical need to strengthen primary care systems to address the growing health challenges faced by communities.
Highlighting the theme for this year’s celebration, “Building Mental Resilience in a Changing World,” Mahmoud underscored the essential role family doctors play in supporting mental health and fostering resilience amidst global adversities such as climate change, social instability, and economic uncertainty.
She described family doctors as frontline caregivers uniquely positioned to deliver continuous, person-centered care that promotes early intervention and holistic support.
According to her; “Family doctors are the backbone of our healthcare system, providing comprehensive care that nurtures mental wellness and builds resilience in individuals and communities.”
She, however, praised their enduring relationships with patients as vital for proactively managing mental health issues and chronic diseases.
Addressing the complex health landscape marked by pandemics, chronic illnesses, and mental health crises, Mahmoud reiterated that robust, accessible primary healthcare is more important than ever.
She also canvassed for training, recruitment, and retention of family physicians-especially in underserved and hard-to-reach regions.
The minister stressed the importance of recognizing and valuing family medicine within health policy and practice frameworks to ensure sustainable health outcomes.
She hailed family doctors as unsung heroes working tirelessly in clinics, rural health posts, urban centres, and conflict zones to deliver equitable healthcare.
The chairperson, Society of Family Physicians, FCT-Keffi chapter, Dr Ngozi Mmamelu, stated that Nigeria faces unique challenges, including limited access to mental health services, stigma, and shortage of mental health professionals.