Nigeria’s National Health Policy at 10: What have we achieved?
There is perhaps no clearer way to measure the development of a nation than by looking at the health of its people. A country may have impressive roads, modern buildings and a growing economy, but if its citizens cannot obtain affordable and quality healthcare, something fundamental remains missing. Healthcare affects not only life expectancy but […]
Nigeria's National Health Policy, introduced in 2016, aimed to improve healthcare accessibility, equity, and effectiveness across the nation. The policy prioritized Primary Health Care as the primary point of contact for Nigerians. It addressed health financing, disease prevention, human resources, public health, and Universal Health Coverage.
Although the policy acknowledged Nigeria's healthcare challenges, it also highlighted positive developments, such as increased attention to Primary Health Care, support for immunisation and maternal and child health, and the creation of the Basic Health Care Provision Fund. Despite these efforts, many primary healthcare facilities remain under-resourced, with inadequate equipment, medicines, electricity, and qualified healthcare workers.
Furthermore, the gap between policy and implementation continues to hinder progress. The newly established National Health Insurance Authority Act of 2022 and the formation of health insurance agencies in some states represent steps towards Universal Health Coverage, but the challenges of out-of-pocket payments and limited awareness persist.
The country has also strengthened its disease surveillance and emergency response capacity, particularly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, these gains are limited in remote areas with inadequate surveillance systems, laboratory resources, and emergency support. Maternal and child health improvements have been made through various programmes, yet high maternal mortality rates demonstrate the need for further action.
The overarching issue remains inadequate and inconsistent financing for healthcare, as Nigeria has not met the 15% health-financing commitment outlined in the Abuja Declaration. Additionally, the exodus of skilled healthcare professionals from Nigeria further strains the health system. To achieve the objectives of the National Health Policy, sustained investment in hospitals, primary healthcare centres, medicines, laboratories, equipment, infrastructure, and human resources is crucial.
Written by urgent.news from Daily Trust's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
