FG Reaffirms Commitment To Universal Health Coverage on UHC Day
Princess-Ekwi Ajide
The Federal Government of Nigeria has pledged to reduce the financial and physical burdens of healthcare on Nigerians by expanding Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
Speaking at the 2024 UHC Day press briefing, themed “Health on the House Government,” the Coordinating Minister for Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Pate, highlighted efforts aimed at improving healthcare access and affordability.
Professor Pate revealed a 14% increase in health insurance enrollment in 2024, adding that 2 million lives were reached making 8 million insured Nigerians.
N45.9 billion has also been disbursed through the Basic Health Care Provision Fund to support vulnerable populations.
The government has also undertaken significant healthcare upgrades, including the repair of 879 obstetric fistulas across 19 centers and upgrading 238 health facilities to functional levels, with 320 more in progress.
Maternal health initiatives, such as free cesarean sections and the Maternal Mortality Innovative Initiative, aim to reduce maternal deaths.
Other achievements include a 16.7% reduction in under-five mortality and significant declines in TB, HIV/AIDS, and diarrheal diseases.
Professor Pate emphasised the government’s commitment to providing affordable, accessible healthcare, with support from partners like WHO and FCDO.
“Healthcare should not impoverish Nigerians. We are building a system where costs are transferred from individuals to the government,” he said.
This UHC Day underscores Nigeria’s determination to strengthening its healthcare system and ensure no one is left behind.
