Editor
By Fatima Saka
The World Health Organization (WHO) has commended the Borno State Government for its efforts in building resilience against the impact of recent devastating floods.
The organization emphasized the importance of ensuring healthcare services remain accessible, equitable, efficient, affordable, and of high quality for all.
WHO Country Representative and Head of Mission, Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, made these remarks during his goodwill message at the 65th National Council on Health (NCH) held on Thursday in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.
Dr. Mulombo highlighted the resilience of both the state and its people, stating: “We recognize the importance of NCH as part of the processes, structures, and institutions in place to oversee and manage Nigeria’s healthcare system. This event demonstrates Borno State’s ability to rise above challenges and strengthen its healthcare infrastructure.”
He commended the inclusivity of the NCH process, which brings together various stakeholders in healthcare, including government agencies, providers, patients, communities, civil society organizations, development partners, and private sector entities.
“This collaboration strengthens partnerships and manages the complex relationships critical for effective service delivery,” he noted.
Dr. Mulombo also emphasized the significance of this year’s NCH theme, “Accelerating Pathways to Universal Health Coverage”, calling it timely as Nigeria, like many countries, strives to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and other Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within the next five years.
“With strong leadership at both federal and state levels, transformative policies and decisions made here can ensure a responsive healthcare system that meets the needs of all, regardless of socioeconomic status, ethnicity, culture, gender, or other factors.”
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Reflecting on the outcomes of the recently concluded Joint Annual Review, he urged the Council to endorse resolutions that set a clear path toward achieving these goals. He reaffirmed WHO’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s health sector in partnership with the United Nations and other stakeholders.
“We will continue to back the implementation of these policies to ensure health for all Nigerians,” Dr. Mulombo concluded.
