By Fatima Saka
In an effort to deliver healthcare systems in Nigeria, the Federal Government has earmarked fifty billion naira as the first tranche of the Basic Healthcare Fund,
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Muhammad Ali Pate made this known on Wednesday at the Ministerial Press Briefing at Radio House, Abuja.
The minister added that this infusion of funds will breathe new life into Nigeria ‘s primary healthcare facilities, saying that this will ascertain quality care is accessible to all citizens.
Highlighting strides made by the administration of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, in advancing the health sector, since inception of May 2023. Prof Pate said that the commitment of the administration is to enhance healthcare accessibility, affordability, and quality.
He expressed that the progress has been unwavering, and “I am proud to share the significant achievements we have accomplished thus far.”
Underscoring the activities and development of healthcare services in Nigeria.
Primary Healthcare
According to the minister, primary health care is to ensure the well-being of the citizens. “Since assuming office, we have prioritized the revitalization of primary healthcare facilities across the nation, ensuring they are adequately equipped and staffed to provide essential services to communities. Through sustained investment and strategic partnerships, we have expanded access to vital healthcare services, particularly in rural and underserved areas, improving health outcomes and reducing the burden of preventable diseases.”
Maternal And Child Mortality
Pate said that his administration has recorded an increase in the proportion of women who attend ANC. “Over 550,000 women now attend their first ANC and are armed with the right information and care to improve their pregnancy outcomes and reduce maternal and child mortality. The achievements we have recorded signal progress and improvements.
“To sustain and continue to build on these gains, in the last six months, the Government of Nigeria recruited 2,497 Doctors, Midwives/Nurses, and CHEWs to bridge the gaps due to attrition. An additional 1,400 health facilities now have Skilled Birth Attendants to assist in deliveries at the health facilities. This has increased the number of health facility deliveries to as high as 230,000 deliveries per month.”
Health Insurance Coverage
The Coordinating Minister Revealed that the Federal Government has made substantial strides in expanding health insurance coverage. “Recognizing that financial barriers often deter individuals from seeking medical care, we have worked tirelessly to increase the accessibility and affordability of health insurance schemes.
“By supporting enrollment initiatives and streamlining administrative processes, we have extended coverage to millions of Nigerians, safeguarding them against the financial hardships associated with healthcare expenses.”
Fund and the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF)
Prof Pate further ascertained that at the beginning of this administration, “we have enrolled about 750,000 more Nigerians in health insurance. We remain committed to providing access to quality health for all Nigerians through the Vulnerable Group.”
Immunization Coverage Nationwide
He said that the commitment to immunization has yielded remarkable results in protecting the population from vaccine-preventable diseases. Through robust vaccination campaigns and outreach programs, we have achieved significant strides in sustaining immunization coverage nationwide, safeguarding our communities, particularly our children, from devastating diseases.
“Notably, our swift response to the diphtheria outbreak underscored our commitment to proactive disease control measures, swiftly containing the spread and saving countless lives. Since the inception of diphtheria response, over 5 million children have been immunized with the Penta vaccine and 10 million children with Td vaccines.”
Lassa Fever Outbreaks
The minister said that the ongoing efforts to combat the threat of Lassa fever, “I am pleased to announce the comprehensive measures taken by the Federal Government to enhance response capabilities and safeguard the health of Nigerians.
‘To strengthen our response to Lassa fever outbreaks, the Federal Government has embarked on the distribution of essential response commodities to states and treatment centers across the nation especially in affected states. These include Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs), Ribavirin (injection and tablets), body bags, thermometers, hypochlorite hand sanitizers, and Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials. By ensuring the availability of these critical resources, we aim to equip healthcare workers and facilities with the necessary tools to effectively manage and contain outbreaks.”
“Recognizing the importance of strategic planning and preparedness, we have developed a robust distribution plan for Lassa fever commodities. This plan ensures the timely and equitable distribution of resources to states and treatment centers based on their specific needs and vulnerability. Additionally, prepositioning of commodities has been undertaken to facilitate swift response and minimize logistical challenges during outbreaks.”
“Confirmed cases of Lassa fever are promptly treated at identified treatment centers across the states. These centers are equipped with the necessary medical expertise, facilities, and medications to provide comprehensive care to patients. By centralizing treatment and care, we can effectively manage cases, prevent transmission, and improve patient outcomes.
“We remain resolute in our commitment to mitigating the impact of Lassa fever and safeguarding the health and well-being of all Nigerians. Through strategic planning, resource allocation, and collaborative efforts with state governments and healthcare partners, we are confident in our ability to effectively respond to outbreaks and protect our communities.”
HPV Vaccination
Pate expressed that with the launch of the HPV vaccine in October 2023 across 15 states plus the FCT, “we have successfully vaccinated more than 4,95 million eligible girls aged 9-14 years representing 80% of eligible girls. The Phase 2 introduction is scheduled for May 2024 in Anambra, Borno, Cross-river, Delta, Ebonyi, Edo, Ekiti, Gombe, Imo, Kwara, Kogi, Ondo, Rivers, Oyo, Sokoto, Kaduna, Katsina, Niger, Yobe, Plateau and Zamfara.
“Pre-implementation activities have commenced to ensure a successful phase 2 introduction, a crucial milestone in our ongoing efforts to combat cervical cancer. By prioritizing preventive measures and expanding access to life-saving vaccines, we are taking proactive steps to protect the health and well-being of our women and girls, ensuring a healthier future for generations to come.”
The Coordinating Minister exclaimed that significant increase in patient attendance at federal tertiary hospitals, a testament to the improved quality of care and confidence in our healthcare system.
“Through targeted investments in infrastructure, technology, and human capital, we will enhance the capacity of these institutions to deliver specialized medical services and handle complex health conditions, ensuring that every Nigerian has access to world-class healthcare when needed.
“Our commitment to improving tertiary healthcare services is unwavering. Twelve tertiary hospitals/centers have been earmarked for infrastructure development, including the establishment of oncology centers, radiology centers, and diagnostics facilities.
“These investments will enhance our capacity to provide specialized care and meet the evolving healthcare needs of our people,” he added.
