This capstone project examined the functionality of primary health care (PHC) facilities in Nkanu West Local Government Area, Enugu State, Nigeria. Using a participatory mixed-methods approach, the study assessed governance structures, service utilisation, and community engagement across three underserved PHCs. Findings revealed that PHC dysfunction is primarily governance-sensitive rather than resource-limited. Community-driven interventions, including the reactivation of Community Health Committees and integration of volunteer health workers, resulted in a 77% increase in service utilisation and restoration of maternal health services in one facility. The study proposes a “governance-first” model for PHC revitalisation, emphasizing community ownership, accountability, and low-cost sustainable interventions. The findings provide practical insights for strengthening primary healthcare systems in rural and resource-constrained settings.
OKONKWO et al. (Sun,) studied this question.