Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, coordinating minister of health and social welfare, has announced the federal government’s strategy to enhance the operational efficiency of the current 8,809 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHC) nationwide, while also aiming to double this number of PHCs to 17,618 by the year 2027, aligning with the objective of achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC). He revealed this at the commemoration of the World Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Day, themed: “Health for All: Time for Action”, and presidential unveiling of Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Compact, between the federal government, state governments and partners, in Abuja.
An estimated sum of $2.5 billion will be raised and directed towards enhancing our primary healthcare system and attain positive outcomes during the span of 2024-2026. This funding will be obtained through a combination of pooled and non-pooled financing, encompassing support from external development partners as well as the federal government. Moreover, it is anticipated that the state governments, responsible for the delivery of primary health services, will also contribute to these advancements. Government objective is to increase the count of fully operational PHCs by two fold through the implementation of decentralized facility financing for infrastructure enhancements.
NGF affirms determination for universal healthcare coverage.
Additionally, there will be an expansion of financial support to cover the expenses associated with operational costs, thereby guaranteeing the provision of top-notch essential Primary Health Care packages. This initiative will commence with the enhancement of the current 8,809 fully operational Primary Health Centers and gradually progress to encompass a total of 17,618 PHCs across all 36 states and the FCT by the year 2027. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) and the governor of Kwara State, restated the unyielding determination of state governors to uphold universal healthcare coverage.
According to his statement, the NGF Secretariat will offer strong assistance in monitoring and executing the compact’s results, with a steadfast dedication from the governors’ forum to ensure universal health coverage becomes a meaningful achievement for every Nigerian. Furthermore, President Bola Tinubu had made it clear that his government is placing great importance on enhancing Nigerian healthcare industry through significant investments and an augmented budget allocation for the sector in the proposed 2024 budget. He said this at the unveiling of Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative and the signing of the Health Renewal Compact by federal, state governments, and development partners in Abuja.
Tinubu unveiled a new initiative to fast track UHC efforts.
The event was included in the array of activities held in commemoration of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Day celebrated on every 12th of December . Enhancing the quality of healthcare is a central aspect of the president’s commitment to bringing Renewed Hope to the people of Nigeria. The unveiled Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative is a robust strategy devised to fast track the country’s progress towards achieving universal health coverage (UHC), ensuring improved well-being and medical attention for every citizen.
To achieve this ambitious feat, there is a need for unparalleled cooperation between the Federal and State governments, as well as between the government and development allies such as the Global Fund. With Nigerian population on a massive scale and the heavy burden of diseases it bears, making remarkable advancements in this initiative has the potential to save countless lives. In his statement at the event, Tinubu said the country’s commitment has been reinforced with the collaboration and assistance of various international partners and organizations.
Healthcare access is an essential right for every human.
Moreover, the importance of prioritizing health is emphasized, as it once again becomes a top priority. Health extends beyond simply being free from illness; it involves the integration of physical, mental, and social well-being. It is an essential right for every human being to access healthcare. This is consistent with Nigeria’s determination to achieve Universal Health Care Coverage which is evident in the resolute dedication of the current administration to guarantee this right for all individuals irrespective of age or location, be it in rural or urban areas.
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