Inside Katsina PHCs, where night services falter amid staffing and power gaps

Published on March 26, 2026

In the heart of Katsina, the Dayi and Dansarai primary healthcare centres (PHCs) stand as pillars of hope for the surrounding rural communities, officially designated to provide round-the-clock basic healthcare services. However, the reality of night services at these facilities paints a starkly different picture, plagued staffing shortages and unreliable power supply.

Local residents frequently express their concerns regarding the inadequacies of the night services. Despite the official designation for 24-hour operation, many report that the facilities become grimly quiet at night. The skeletal staff available during these hours is often overwhelmed, leading to delays in critical medical attention. “When emergencies arise at night, there is often no one to attend to us. We have to wait until morning or seek help elsewhere, which is not always feasible,” lamented a local villager.

Power outages exacerbate the situation, complicating any attempts to maintain adequate medical care after dusk. The lack of electricity not only hampers the operation of essential medical equipment but also limits communication capabilities, leaving medical personnel isolated in emergencies. “We can’t perform basic procedures without power. Sometimes, we just have to send patients to distant hospitals when the equipment fails,” a healthcare worker at the Dansarai centre revealed.

Despite the pressing need for consistent services, the staffing gaps remain a significant challenge. Many healthcare professionals are unwilling to work in these rural settings due to varying factors, including inadequate salary structures, lack of necessary facilities, and the overwhelming burden of responsibilities. This has resulted in an acute shortage of qualified personnel during night shifts.

Local health authorities acknowledge the challenges and are actively seeking solutions. Recent discussions have highlighted the need to recruit additional staff and invest in alternative power sources, such as generators or solar panels, to ensure that vital medical services are available around the clock.

Community members express a mix of frustration and hope. “We know there is effort being made, but it feels like a long road ahead. The night is when we need care the most, and we hope something changes soon,” said a community leader.

As the health sector continues to struggle with these pressing issues, the residents of Katsina are left in a precarious position, hoping for a future where healthcare is reliable, regardless of the time of day. The challenges faced Dansarai PHCs highlight a critical need for systemic changes in the rural healthcare system, ensuring that every citizen has access to the necessary medical care when they need it most.

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