The Federal Government is gearing up to introduce the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative in its quest to attain Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030. Prof Muhammad Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, made this announcement during a press briefing held in Abuja on Monday.
It was highlighted that UHC Day, observed annually on December 12, serves as a platform to acknowledge advancements toward health for all while emphasizing the necessity for robust and adaptable health systems to realize UHC.
This year’s UHC Day theme, “Health for All: Time for Action,” underscores the urgency to take concrete steps toward this objective.
Pate further disclosed plans to formally launch the initiative in Abuja during the 2023 UHC Day, where a strategy outlining the implementation process will be endorsed by governments at various levels and collaborating partners.
He said, “The quest to achieve UHC and better health for all Nigerians requires a multi-sectoral and whole-of-government approach.
“Further to this, the government of Nigeria has articulated NHSRII to advance the nation’s journey towards UHC.”
He said the initiative aims to guide the renewal of Nigeria’s health system, part of the government’s broader health agenda.
He noted that the initiative directly confronts poor population health outcomes, intensified by highly inequitable access to health.
He said the initiative will leverage the Basic Health Care Provision Fund, in partnership with state governments and development partners in a transformational sector-wide approach programme to improve health outcomes.
This, he said, includes plans to train additional human resources for health and make available at least 17,000 functional primary healthcare centers.
“The commitment to expanding BHCPF and increasing the number of PHC aligns with the National Health Act’s objectives,” he said.
“The comprehensive strategy outlined involves assessing existing facilities, improving infrastructure, ensuring a sufficient health workforce, and actively engaging local communities for feedback.”
Also speaking, the Executive Director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr Muyi Aina, said strengthening the PHC system is essential in building a sustainable healthcare system that can effectively respond to the needs of the population.
According to him, the successful implementation of the NHSRII can significantly contribute to achieving UHC in the country, ensuring that every Nigerian has access to quality healthcare services without suffering financial hardship.
