FG Vows Support To Universal Health Coverage

The federal government has reaffirmed its commitment to universal health coverage, emphasizing stakeholder collaboration and primary healthcare.

The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, made the pledge at the legislative dialogue on improving maternal health in Nigeria in Abuja. 

A statement signed by the Head of the Public Relations Unit at the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, Remi Adeleke, made available to our correspondent on Sunday noted that representatives from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the National Assembly, and partners convened to discuss strategies for advancing healthcare services.

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Pate, who was represented by the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. Muyi Aina, declared that reduction of child and maternal mortality is a topmost area of focus in the renewed hope agenda of the present administration.

He stressed further that despite the significant increase in resources allocated to the health sector, the need to invest more in the health sector cannot be overemphasized.

“We recognize the crucial role that our partners play in complementing the government’s efforts. By working together, we can ensure that every Nigerian has access to quality healthcare, regardless of their location or socio-economic status,” he said.

The minister highlighted the progress made in revitalizing primary healthcare, citing increased funding and sector-wide approaches.

“While funding has increased substantially this year, we need to do more. We’re counting on our partners’ support to improve spending and finance for the health sector. 

“Investing in healthcare is investing in our nation’s future. We must continue to prioritize primary healthcare, addressing the root causes of health issues and promoting preventive measures,” he stated. 

He emphasized that the NPHCDA will continue to play a vital role in driving the vision forward, working closely with stakeholders to ensure improved health outcomes for all Nigerians.

The minister added that the NPHCDA’s strategic plan aligns with the FG’s priorities, as the agency aims to enhance primary healthcare services, ensuring that Nigerians have access to quality care. 

“The NPHCDA will focus on improving healthcare financing, strengthening healthcare infrastructure, and promoting community engagement. The agency aims to leverage partnerships and collaborations to achieve these objectives,” he added. 

Dr. Salma Anas-Ibrahim, the special adviser to President Bola Tinubu, noted that progress in the health sector must be sustained. 

“The progress made so far is encouraging, but we must maintain momentum. 

“This national dialogue is necessitated by the need for the legislators to be more conversant with what needs to be done at the policy level,” she added. 

The WHO country representative, Dr. Walter Mulombo, stated that considering the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals on health, the journey to meet the target of reducing child and maternal mortality is far. 

“Inequality between zones and states, environmental degradation, shocks, and crises are aggravating child and maternal mortality cases. An increase in the allocation of resources, technology, and innovation must be deployed to accelerate the reduction of child and maternal mortality,” Mulombo said. 

Also, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Health, Dr. Ipalibo Banigo, recognized poor funding and poor insurance as the bane of the health sector. 

She charged lawmakers to channel funds for constituency projects to health insurance as another strategy to accelerate the reduction of child and maternal mortality. 

“A child that is well-educated and a woman that is well-empowered would seek quality health service,” she declared.