The Nigerian government has taken note of an executive order by U.S. President Donald Trump aimed at curbing foreign aid to African countries, including Nigeria. Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, stressed that this shift presents a critical opportunity for Nigeria to reevaluate and fortify its healthcare infrastructure. During his recent visit to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Ebute Metta, Lagos, Salako called for greater emphasis on domestic resource mobilisation and long-term planning to ensure the Sustainability of key health initiatives, especially in light of potential reductions in international funding.
Salako expressed concern over the expected reduction in international support, particularly for essential programmes such as HIV treatment, which has long relied on U.S. funding. He highlighted the need for alternative funding streams, such as an increase in government funding for healthcare projects, and crowdfunding. To safeguard these initiatives, the Nigerian government is engaging with key international stakeholders, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the UN Global Platform, to explore collaborative solutions. While acknowledging the importance of global cooperation, Salako called for a more self-sufficient healthcare system in Nigeria.
FMC Ebute Metta could serve as a model for digital healthcare Innovation.
While at FMC Ebute Metta, Salako commended the facility for its high-quality medical equipment, effective use of space, and digital innovations. He also praised the hospital’s transition to a paperless system and its electronic medical record (EMR) implementation. Salako remarked that the hospital could serve as a model for other healthcare facilities across the country, as part of the Nigeria Digital Health Initiative. The facility’s efficient operations, despite being relatively small, were described as a testament to the potential for growth in Nigeria’s healthcare sector, particularly when supported by digital tools.
Moreover, Salako emphasised the government’s efforts to improve Cancer treatment, citing initiatives such as the Cancer Health Fund and the Catastrophic Health Fund, which have significantly reduced the costs of treatments like dialysis. He noted that dialysis costs had dropped from ₦50,000 to ₦12,000 per session as a result of government intervention. Expanding Cancer Treatment facilities and raising awareness about these issues remain key priorities for the government as it works to enhance healthcare access for Nigerians.
Investment in the healthcare system is key to Innovation and growth.
Nigeria’s healthcare system is at a critical juncture, facing both significant challenges and emerging opportunities. The rise of digital health solutions, exemplified by FMC Ebute Metta’s use of electronic medical records and telemedicine, offers a glimpse of the future for the country’s healthcare sector. By embracing these technologies, Nigeria can streamline healthcare delivery, reduce inefficiencies, and improve patient outcomes. However, this digital shift must go hand in hand with a concerted effort to address the physical Infrastructure needs of hospitals nationwide. A dual focus on both digital innovations and physical infrastructure will be essential in creating a healthcare system capable of meeting the growing demands of the population.
Equally important is the need for Nigeria to diversify its funding sources for healthcare. As global aid becomes increasingly unpredictable, the country must explore innovative financing models that rely more heavily on local contributions. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) could play a pivotal role in this, allowing the government to leverage Private Sector resources to deliver essential healthcare services. These partnerships not only offer a stable funding stream but also provide the opportunity to invest in local healthcare infrastructure. By doing so, Nigeria can build a more resilient healthcare system that reduces dependence on external donors and enhances the sustainability and accessibility of healthcare services for all citizens.
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As the Nigerian government continues to engage with global organisations to ensure ongoing cooperation, it must also prioritise strengthening domestic healthcare policies. This includes building capacity within the health workforce through enhanced training and ensuring sufficient numbers of qualified professionals. Improving health Insurance coverage is another key step, providing greater access to affordable services. Additionally, fostering accountability in the management of healthcare funds will help ensure resources are used efficiently. By focusing on these areas, Nigeria can reduce its dependence on external aid while improving the quality and sustainability of healthcare for its citizens.