THROUGH massive investments and increased funds to the health sector in the proposed 2024 budget, President Bola Tinubu says Nigerians’ health is a priority.
Tinubu spoke on Tuesday at the unveiling of Nigeria’s health sector renewal investment initiative and signing of the health renewal compact.
President Tinubu emphasized the gathering as a chance for reflection on the reformation of Nigeria’s health sector, as stated by Ajuri Ngelale, his media aide.
The president announced plans to overhaul physical infrastructure, equipment, and re-train frontline health workers starting in 2024.
“Delivering improved quality health is an underpinning factor in my promise of Renewed Hope to Nigerians. That hope is ignited here today with the support of all multilateral partners and agencies; health is back on the front burner,” Ngelale quoted Tinubu as saying.
“This occasion marks an opportunity for collective reflection and action as we recommit ourselves to the noble pursuit of health for all. The theme for this year ‘Health for All: Time for Action’ encapsulates the urgency and the determination with which we must approach this noble goal.
“Health is not merely the absence of disease but the embodiment of physical, mental, and social well-being. It is a fundamental human right and Nigeria’s commitment to achieving Universal Health Care Coverage is reflected in the unwavering dedication of my administration to uphold this right for every individual, young or old, in rural or urban areas.”
To address the high cost of healthcare, Tinubu plans to redesign the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) to improve access to essential healthcare services, in line with the National Health Act 2014, with non-partisan coordination and implementation of these initiatives.
Muhammad Ali Pate, coordinating minister of health and social welfare, announced the redesign of the BHCPF as the foundation for a sector-wide approach in the health sector.
He said the BHCPF, comprising at least one percent of the consolidated revenue fund, is expected to receive $2.5 billion in financing from 2024 to 2026 to enhance the primary health system nationwide.
Pate outlined plans to double the number of primary healthcare centres across 36 states and the FCT by 2027, integrating them with a comprehensive emergency care system.