Nigeria at 66: Musings on the health sector in the Renewed Hope era, By Olayinka Atilola

Stakeholders in Nigeria's health sector have urged for increased investment to tackle the country's ongoing humanitarian and health crises affecting vulnerable communities. This call was made during the 30th anniversary celebrations of Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) in Nigeria, held in Abuja.

The event highlighted the plight of nearly 6.4 million children aged 0–59 months who are suffering from acute malnutrition, including over two million cases of severe acute malnutrition. Speaking at the occasion, George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, highlighted the 30-year legacy of compassion, humanity, solidarity, and service represented by MSF in Nigeria.

MSF has played a crucial role in managing emergencies, providing maternal and child healthcare, nutrition support, disease control, and emergency response. In 2025, MSF treated over 444,000 children for malnutrition, with more than 90,000 in stabilisation centres and more than 341,000 patients for malaria. Additionally, the organisation conducted over 224 fistula surgeries, responded to outbreaks of cholera, measles, diphtheria, and Lassa fever, and operated in 10 states across Nigeria.

Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, emphasized that while MSF complements national priorities, the ultimate goal is to strengthen local capacity for delivering sustainable healthcare interventions. He cited alarming increases in measles cases in Zamfara and peak bed occupancy in Sokoto, underscoring the urgent need for stronger collaborations among stakeholders to address Nigeria's health challenges effectively.