A former Oyo State Commissioner for Health, Dr Kayode Afolabi, has called on the federal, state, and local governments to employ more trained mid-level health professionals to address healthcare challenges in rural communities. Speaking at the maiden convocation of Premier College of Health Technology, Ibadan, Dr Afolabi emphasized that mid-level healthcare workers play a critical role in improving access and quality of services at the community level.

Dr Afolabi acknowledged regulatory and support bodies such as the Community Health Practitioner Registration Board of Nigeria and the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) for maintaining standards and ensuring quality in health technology education. He also appreciated the partnership of the Oyo State Ministries of Health and Education, the Primary Healthcare Board, and Hospitals Management Board for supporting the college’s growth.

Addressing graduands, he urged them to serve with integrity, compassion, and professional excellence. “Whether in busy urban centres or underserved rural communities, be healers, leaders, and agents of positive change,” he advised, stressing that ethical discipline and lifelong learning are essential for impactful service.

Professor Imran Moharson-Bello of the University of Ibadan also highlighted the need to strengthen community health workers, noting that while Nigeria has over 10,000 primary healthcare centres, only 46 percent are currently functional. He urged governments to improve the capacity of these centres and their staff, as they are closest to the grassroots and vital for addressing local health needs.