The Coordinating Minister for Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to improving population health outcomes and ensuring financial protection for Nigeria’s poorest and most vulnerable citizens. He highlighted these priorities during the opening ceremony of the 65th National Council on Health (NCH) held at the Mohammed Indimi Centre for Distance Learning, University of Maiduguri, Borno State.
Themed “Accelerating Pathways to Universal Health Coverage: Strategies for 2030 Success”, the NCH brought together Commissioners of Health from Nigeria’s 36 states, top Ministry officials, development partners, and civil society organizations.
Prof. Pate emphasized that the Tinubu-led administration is focused on addressing citizens’ needs, responding to their feedback, and fostering collaboration between federal and state governments to improve healthcare outcomes. He also underscored the importance of industrial harmony in the health sector, urging professional groups to prioritize public welfare.
Under the National Health Renewal Investment Initiative, Prof. Pate highlighted key achievements:
Governance and Regulation: The repositioning of regulatory bodies, including the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), to ensure the safety and efficacy of health products and systems.
Primary Health Care Revitalization: Over 8,000 Primary Health Care (PHC) centers have benefited from the N46 billion disbursed through the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF). The Minister added that nearly 4,000 PHCs are undergoing revitalization in collaboration with states.
Training of Health Workers: More than 43,000 frontline health workers have been trained, with a target to reach 120,000.
Prof. Pate announced significant strides in reducing maternal mortality and improving access to care for women with obstetric fistula complications. Over 1,000 women have received free care under the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA).
“By the end of the year, fewer than 100 women will still be awaiting treatment for Vesico Vaginal Fistula, with services covered under the NHIA’s emergency healthcare program,” he said.
Additionally, at least 30 PHCs and secondary facilities now offer free emergency obstetric services, including cesarean sections, as part of efforts to enhance affordability and access.
Appealing to healthcare professionals, Prof. Pate urged them to keep public welfare at the forefront, assuring them that the administration is actively resolving labor-related issues.
Declaring the meeting open, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State reaffirmed the state’s dedication to the Abuja Declaration’s health funding benchmark of 15% of the annual budget. In a major announcement, the Governor approved a pay rise for state-employed medical doctors, ensuring parity with their federal counterparts.
“This forum allows us to collaborate, brainstorm, and deliver on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s mandate to save lives, reduce pain, and ensure health for all Nigerians,” said Zulum.
Meanwhile, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Daju Kachollom, commended Governor Zulum for hosting the NCH and for his hospitality toward delegates. She also lauded his commitment to improving the welfare of the health workforce in Borno State.
The 65th NCH concluded with a renewed call to accelerate progress toward achieving Universal Health Coverage by 2030, aligning with the Federal Government’s vision of a healthier and more equitable Nigeria.
