The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammed Ali Pate, has declared that Nigeria is making significant strides in health sector transformation but stressed that sustained efforts are necessary to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
Speaking in Abuja during a press conference to commemorate UHC Day, Pate described the country’s progress as akin to an ascending aircraft yet to reach its cruising altitude. Highlighting key achievements, he noted that 2 million Nigerians have been enrolled in the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) scheme in just one year. “If we had maintained this pace for two decades, over 40 million Nigerians would now have health insurance,” Pate stated, emphasizing the need for taxation revenue and strategic investment in primary healthcare to sustain these gains.
The minister outlined various initiatives aimed at improving maternal and child health, including the Maternal Mortality Reduction Initiative, which provides free emergency care at key facilities. Additionally, more than 230 primary healthcare centers have been completed, with 300 more under construction and another 2,000 supported by state governments. These efforts aim to expand access to essential services for vulnerable populations, particularly pregnant women and children.
Calls for Sustained Reforms and Public Awareness
Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Salako Iziaq Adekunle Adeboye, echoed the need for sustained momentum and collective action. He emphasized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s prioritization of healthcare and the critical role of public awareness in promoting health insurance. “Health is an investment, and everyone must play a part in ensuring universal health coverage,” Adeboye stated. He called on the media to educate Nigerians about saving for health emergencies and investing in well-being, describing this cultural shift as vital for achieving health equity.
Global Partners Applaud Progress
Global health partners also commended Nigeria’s progress. Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, the World Health Organization (WHO) Country Representative to Nigeria, praised the nation for its advancements in healthcare financing and the successful implementation of the NCA-65 activity. “Nigeria is on the right path, and its success will have transformative effects not only in Africa but globally,” he remarked, reaffirming WHO’s commitment to supporting health reforms in the country.
Dave McConalogue, Co-Chair of the Health Development Partners, highlighted the alignment and coordination brought about by the health sector compact signed a year ago. He stressed that collaboration remains essential for sustainable health sector change. Similarly, Dr. Gafar Alawode, Co-Convener of the Nigeria UHC Forum, called for deliberate strategies to expand health insurance coverage to at least 50% of the population. He emphasized the importance of innovative financing mechanisms and resource optimization.
Path to Universal Health Coverage
The stakeholders unanimously agreed that achieving UHC requires sustained commitment, innovative strategies, and collaboration among all sectors. The progress made so far underscores Nigeria’s potential to transform its health system, ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare for all citizens.
