The Vice Chancellor of Wesley University, Sunday Obeka, has called on governments at all levels to increase funding and attention towards community health development across Nigeria.

Speaking at the maiden International Conference on Community Health held at the university’s campus in Ondo Town, Prof. Obeka stressed that the sector remains underfunded despite its critical role in improving the lives of Nigerians, especially those in rural areas.

The conference, themed “Community health in a globalised society: prospects, challenges and way forward,” brought together participants from across Nigeria and the international community to discuss solutions for strengthening primary healthcare systems.

Highlighting the current realities, Obeka noted that rural communities continue to suffer from inadequate healthcare services.

“If you visit rural areas today, you will see that community health urgently needs more attention in our national budget,” he said.

He urged policymakers to reconsider and reallocate resources to better support the sector.

He also emphasized the role of the Community Health Practitioners Council of Nigeria and its affiliated bodies in transforming healthcare delivery at the grassroots level.

The event further showcased Wesley University’s growing influence in healthcare education, research, and professional development.

In his remarks, Bashir Idris, Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of the Community Health Practitioners Registration Board of Nigeria, praised the university for hosting the conference. He described it as a significant step forward in advancing community health education in Nigeria.

Idris also commended Prof. Obeka’s leadership, noting that his contributions are making a meaningful impact not only within the profession but across the country. He further pledged continued collaboration between the board and the university in training skilled community health practitioners.

As discussions around healthcare reform continue, stakeholders agree that strengthening community health systems is key to achieving accessible and quality healthcare for all Nigerians.