The Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) has called on the Federal Government and stakeholders in the health sector to establish a more coordinated, accountable, and efficient healthcare system. This appeal was made in a statement by the NMA National President, Dr. Bala Mohammed Audu, through the Taraba State Chairman, Dr. Adam Hamidu Kara, as part of the 2025 Physician Week celebrations.
Dr. Audu expressed concern over Nigeria’s high mortality rate, emphasizing the need to translate health policies into concrete actions to build a robust and resilient health system. The Physician Week provides an opportunity for medical practitioners to reflect on their mental health and well-being, while strategizing for a more sustainable future for the profession.
The NMA highlighted the urgent need for greater investment in the health workforce, including equitable personnel distribution, motivation, and retention strategies to address the ongoing brain drain. Additionally, the association called for the rehabilitation of health facilities, improved access to essential medicines, and the establishment of functional referral systems nationwide.
The importance of comprehensive health policy reforms, backed by strong implementation frameworks and measurable accountability mechanisms, was also emphasized. This year’s Physician Week theme, “Health Care as a Value Chain: Building Efficiency from Policy to Patients,” underscores the need to close the gap between policy formulation and effective service delivery to patients.
The NMA’s call for a more efficient healthcare system comes as Nigeria continues to grapple with significant health challenges. The association’s recommendations aim to address these challenges by promoting a more coordinated and accountable approach to healthcare delivery. By implementing these reforms, Nigeria can work towards reducing its high mortality rate and improving overall health outcomes. The success of these efforts will depend on the collaborative efforts of the Federal Government, stakeholders in the health sector, and medical practitioners to prioritize the needs of patients and the healthcare system as a whole.
