Author(s) :

Sanusi Kaura Mohammed.

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Abstract :

Primary Health Care (PHC) constitutes a critical foundation of effective healthcare systems, particularly in rural and underserved communities where access to formal health services remains constrained. In Kebbi State, traditional institutions have historically complemented government efforts in grassroots development, including healthcare delivery. Yet, scholarship has paid limited attention to the institutional role of emirate authorities in the historical development and delivery of PHC in Northern Nigeria. This study examines the role of the Gwandu Emirate in primary healthcare service delivery in Kebbi State between 2005 and 2025, focusing on maternal and child healthcare, immunisation, disease prevention, health education, community mobilisation and collaboration with government agencies and development partners. Adopting a qualitative historical approach, the study draws on oral interviews, archival materials, government reports, policy documents and relevant secondary literature, analysed through historical and thematic methods. The findings demonstrate that the Gwandu Emirate strengthened community mobilisation, supported maternal and child healthcare and immunisation initiatives, facilitated disease-prevention activities, and promoted collaboration between communities, government institutions and development partners. However, inadequate funding, personnel shortages, political interference and weak infrastructure constrained these contributions. The study argues that the Emirate constituted an important institution of grassroots health governance, demonstrating how traditional authorities can complement formal healthcare structures and deepen community participation in PHC delivery. Keywords: Keywords: Primary Health Care; Gwandu Emirate; Traditional Institutions; Healthcare Governance; Kebbi State.

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