STRENGTHENING HEALTH EDUCATION AT THE PRIMARY HEALTHCARE LEVEL IN NIGERIA: COMMUNITY-CENTERED STRATEGIES FOR IMPACT

Abstract

This paper adopts a narrative review and policy analysis approach to critically examine health education practices at the primary healthcare (PHC) level in Nigeria. Drawing on recent empirical studies, national policy documents, and global health frameworks, the study interrogates the limitations of predominantly top-down health education models and advances community-centered strategies as a more effective alternative. Anchored on the Social Ecological Model and Community Participation Theory, the paper provides an analytical framework for understanding how multilevel determinants and participatory processes shape health behaviors and outcomes. Evidence suggests that weak localization, limited community ownership, fragmented communication, and systemic constraints undermine the effectiveness of PHC health education in Nigeria (NPHCDA, 2020; WHO, 2022; NPC, 2023). The paper further explores implementation challenges, including sociocultural resistance, resource limitations, power asymmetries, and digital inequities. It concludes by proposing context-sensitive, participatory, and culturally grounded strategies aimed at strengthening PHC health education and improving population health outcomes in Nigeria.