The Federal Government has unveiled a groundbreaking digital health tool designed to modernize and standardize medical care at the grassroots level. The tool, known as the Automated National Standing Orders (NSO) Mobile Application, will guide Community Health Practitioners (CHPs) in diagnosing and treating common medical conditions across primary healthcare facilities nationwide.
Unveiling the application on Thursday at Nicon Luxury Hotel, Abuja, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, said the innovation marks a historic leap in Nigeria’s health sector.
“This is a transformational moment for primary healthcare in Nigeria,” Salako declared. “With this application, we are equipping frontline health workers with the digital tools they need to deliver safe, accurate and timely healthcare services in every community.”
Developed by the Community Health Practitioners Registration Board of Nigeria (CHPRBN) with technical support from the Health Information System Agency (HISA), the app digitizes the National Standing Orders—Nigeria’s official clinical guide for community-level healthcare delivery.
Salako said the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s digital health reform strategy under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Digitization is one of the strongest drivers of our health sector renewal. This innovation proves that technology, regulation and service delivery can work together to save lives,” he stated.
The minister explained that the mobile application would improve clinical decision-making by Community Health Practitioners, enhance accountability, provide real-time medical guidance and help bridge healthcare gaps in underserved areas.
He added that the tool will also become compulsory for all Community Health Practitioners by 2027.
“This app is free for all registered CHPs. We are giving a 24-month window for training and full adoption. After 2027, no CHP will be allowed to operate without using the digital Standing Orders,” Salako announced.
The minister commended the Registrar/CEO of CHPRBN, Dr. Bashir Idris, for what he described as a “visionary commitment to digital transformation.” He noted that the board had moved from manual records to digital licensing, computer-based examinations and automated professional development systems in less than four years.
Salako also praised HISA for supporting the successful rollout of the platform.
“What we are witnessing today is a product of inter-agency collaboration done right,” he said. “This is how we build a stronger and smarter health system.”
He urged health workers to embrace the innovation for the benefit of Nigerians.
“Technology alone does not change systems—people do. This app will only succeed if you use it with integrity, professionalism and dedication,” he told the practitioners.
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Salako concluded by officially launching the app and reaffirming the government’s commitment to digital health transformation.
“This innovation brings us one step closer to universal health coverage. With this, no Nigerian—no matter where they live, should be left behind,” he said.
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