The Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, has reaffirmed its commitment to prioritizing Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in its healthcare reform agenda. This was disclosed by Dr Salma Anas-Kolo, the Special Adviser to the President on Health, during a health policy dialogue held in Abuja.
The dialogue, titled “Setting UHC and health security priorities in the new dispensation: Getting it right from the outset,” brought together stakeholders including donor agencies, development partners, civil society organizations, and the media.
Universal Health Coverage, as defined by the World Health Organisation, ensures that everyone has access to the full range of quality health services they need, without facing financial hardship. It encompasses various aspects of health services, from promotion and prevention to treatment and rehabilitation, across all stages of life.
Dr Anas-Kolo emphasized that President Tinubu’s blueprint for health, which he presented during his election campaigns, will be implemented. The objective of this blueprint is to bridge the gap between the privileged and underprivileged in accessing quality healthcare by providing financial security.
The commitment of the administration to adopt recommendations from the Presidential Health Reform Committee report was acknowledged by Dr Walter Mulombo, the WHO Country Representative to Nigeria. He stated that this commitment serves as a solid starting point in ensuring the successful implementation of UHC and overall health system strengthening. Dr Mulombo highlighted key areas such as health governance, infrastructure upgrades, pharmaceutical supply chains, pandemic preparedness, and research and development that need to be addressed for an effective health system.
Dr Rob Yates, the Executive Director of the Centre for UHC at Chatham House, expressed his organization’s support for the government in achieving the UHC agenda. He emphasized the critical role of political commitment in realizing the goals of UHC.
Chika Offor, the Chair of the Health Sector Reform Coalition, urged the new government to address poor health outcomes in the country. She stressed the need for effective and efficient healthcare delivery to improve the overall health status of Nigerians.
The Emir of Shonga, Dr Haliru Yahaya, highlighted the significance of political will and a change in attitudes in driving positive change and progress in the country’s health system.
With the government’s commitment to prioritizing Universal Health Coverage, coupled with the support of various stakeholders, there is hope for a stronger and more inclusive healthcare system in Nigeria. The focus on UHC will ensure that all Nigerians have access to the healthcare services they need, regardless of their financial circumstances, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes for the nation.
