KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDES OF WARD DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEMBERS TOWARDS PARTICIPATION IN PRIMARY HEALTH CARE SERVICES

Primary Health Care (PHC) in Nigeria relies on Ward Development Committees (WDCs) to foster community participation and accountability. Despite their pivotal role, evidence suggests suboptimal performance due to gaps in knowledge and attitude among members. This study assessed the knowledge and attitudes of WDC members regarding their participation in PHC services in Kaduna State, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional mixed-methods design was employed. Using Cochran's formula, 152 WDCs were selected from 245 wards across three senatorial zones via multistage sampling. A structured KAP questionnaire was administered to WDC members, complemented by in-depth interviews with PHC service beneficiaries. Quantitative data were analyze using descriptive statistics and one-sample t-tests (p<0.05). Qualitative data were thematically analyzed. The mean knowledge score was 3.44 (SD=1.295) out of 5. While members demonstrated strong awareness of community mobilization roles (M=4.58), significant deficiencies existed in monitoring responsibilities (M=2.84), reporting structures (M=2.71), and gender composition requirements (M=1.51). No significant gender differences in knowledge were found (t (138) =2.103, p=.037). Attitudes were positive overall (M=3.43, SD=1.263), with strong endorsement of transparency (M=4.61) and community trust (M=4.36). However, perceived support from authorities was low (M=2.34) and members felt their contributions had limited influence on decision-making (M=2.93). The one-sample t-test confirmed attitudes were significantly high (M=34.12, t (139) =10.52, p<.001). Qualitative findings revealed low community awareness of WDCs and their roles. WDC members possess goodwill and mobilization capacity but are constrained by shallow technical knowledge, weak institutional support, and limited integration into PHC governance. Strengthening WDC effectiveness requires comprehensive capacity building, enforced gender policies, formal integration into PHC structures, and enhanced communication systems.