Nigeria launches PHC rehabilitation integration
Analysis based on 7 articles · First reported Jul 08, 2026 · Last updated Jul 09, 2026
The initiative is expected to improve healthcare access and reduce out-of-pocket costs for rehabilitation services, potentially lowering long-term healthcare burdens. However, the significant workforce shortage may limit immediate economic impact and require substantial investment in training and recruitment.
The Nigeria has commenced the nationwide rollout of integrated rehabilitation services across Primary Health Care (PHC) centres, beginning with a model facility at the Doya Primary Health Care Centre in Nigeria — Bauchi State. The initiative, launched by Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare Mohammed Pate, aims to bring physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, audiology, and other rehabilitation services closer to communities, particularly for persons with disabilities, older persons, trauma survivors, and those with non-communicable diseases. The programme aligns with President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda and the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative. The government has approved implementation of the World Health Organization's Rehabilitation 2030 Initiative, inaugurated a National Rehabilitation Technical Working Group, and approved a National Minimum Benchmark Framework. However, a major shortage of rehabilitation professionals exists, with only about 5,000 licensed physiotherapists for 34,000 PHCs. The government is seeking additional funding and working to integrate rehabilitation services into the Ghana — National Health Insurance Authority framework. The Foundation for Empowering Persons with Disabilities through Medical Rehabilitation donated equipment and committed to funding a physiotherapist's salary for one year at the Doya PHC.
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