As part of the 2025 World Family Doctors Day celebration, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has urged governments at all levels to boost funding and attention to primary healthcare across Nigeria.
Speaking at an event held by the Society of Family Physicians of Nigeria (FCT/Keffi chapter), the FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, said Nigeria must act fast to improve community health systems.
She noted that this year’s theme, Building Mental Resilience in a Changing World, reflects the growing need to support mental health, especially as people face challenges like climate change, economic hardship, and social instability.
“Family doctors are the heart of our healthcare system,” Mahmoud said. “They offer continuous, personal care that helps build mental strength and overall well-being.”
She praised family doctors for the trust they build with patients and their important role in managing long-term health issues. She also called for more efforts to train, hire, and keep family doctors—especially in areas that don’t have enough medical professionals.
Dr. Ngozi Mmamelu, Chairperson of the FCT chapter, highlighted Nigeria’s struggles with limited mental health services, widespread stigma, and a shortage of mental health experts. She called for mental health services to be added to everyday healthcare, with family doctors leading the way in early detection, support, and education.
The event also celebrated the founding of the World Organization of Family Doctors in 1972, a global effort to improve health through strong primary care.
