Positive signals for healthcare

Healthcare reflects societal advancement, influenced by economic, social, and political conditions. From ancient civilisations to modern nations, healthcare development mirrors societal priorities and governance. Delivering healthcare services signifies a state’s commitment to citizens’ welfare, fostering national growth by improving human capital and productivity. Healthier populations drive economic output, workforce participation, and innovation.

Healthcare advancements bridge inequality and reinforce trust in governance. Societies striving for better living standards experience political stability, longer life expectancies, and economic growth.

“From rudimentary remedies to sophisticated surgeries and digital solutions, healthcare mirrors human resilience.”

Ancient Egypt exemplifies early healthcare understanding. In Deir el-Medina, medical care for tomb workers highlighted one of the earliest governmental healthcare systems. Egyptian medicine incorporated surgery, specialisation, and formal training. Physicians like Imhotep, the first recorded physician, laid foundational medical practices.

Modern parallels include Germany and Japan. Germany’s universal healthcare, dating to the 1880s under Otto von Bismarck, covers over 90 percent of the population, offering maternity care, preventive medicine, and mental health support. Japan’s focus on preventive care results in an 84.6-year life expectancy by 2023, driven by check-ups, early disease detection, and emphasis on diet and exercise.

Healthcare advancements reflect societal values. Today, healthcare systems reduce mortality, enhance quality of life, and enable productivity. However, Nigeria ranked 142 out of 195 in a 2022 Lancet health system performance report. Maternal mortality is 512 deaths per 100,000 live births, the third highest globally. Only 39 percent of children are fully immunised, compared to the global 85 percent average. High expenses, limited infrastructure, and personnel shortages hinder progress. South Africa’s immunisation rate is 82 percent, and Rwanda’s is 95 percent, showcasing improvement potential through targeted policies and community engagement.

Healthcare re-emerged as a national priority in Nigeria in 2024, spurred by Professor Muhammad Ali Pate’s 2023 appointment as Coordinating Minister of Health. Public critique and recognition of achievements boost morale, reinforce trust, and foster innovation.

Under Professor Pate, the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSRII) aims to overhaul healthcare by addressing systemic issues and driving sustainable improvements. NHSRII focuses on leadership, policy development, infrastructure, training, private sector investment, manufacturing, and emergency preparedness. It promotes gender equity and reduces inequalities.

NHSRII’s Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp) coordinates government action, aligns donor efforts with national policies, and fosters collaboration. This model draws from Ghana and Tanzania, where SWAp streamlines funding and aligns healthcare strategies.

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A key achievement is the 16.7 percent reduction in under-five mortality, from 132 per 1,000 live births in 2018 to 110 in 2023. This reflects improvements in prenatal care, nutrition, and vaccination, which instills public confidence in the healthcare system.

In 2024, Nigeria vaccinated 12.3 million girls aged 9-14 against HPV, covering 96 percent of the target population. This milestone, the highest global HPV coverage, is critical in preventing cervical cancer, a leading cause of cancer deaths among Nigerian women. Community engagement, school-based vaccination, and awareness campaigns were pivotal.

In November 2024, Nigeria piloted a malaria vaccine in Bayelsa and Kebbi, vaccinating 41,145 children. Malaria causes 23 percent of child mortality in Nigeria. The pilot paves the way for nationwide expansion, potentially saving thousands annually.

Health insurance expansion progressed. By 2024, all states had functional State Health Insurance Agencies (SSHIAs). Over NGN 12 billion covered 1.7 million lives. The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) enrolled 2 million Nigerians, a 14 percent increase from 2023. Currently, 19.4 million individuals are insured, advancing universal health coverage and reducing financial burdens.

Healthcare investment is growing, with 74 pipeline companies involved in 22 major projects. Foreign manufacturers fund local operations, totalling over $2 billion. Regulatory support and market-shaping strategies are vital.

Human resources for health are prioritized. In 2024, 53,732 health workers were retrained across 32 states, improving service delivery. This equips frontline workers with updated maternal and child health skills, disease prevention, and emergency response, enhancing healthcare outcomes.

A significant challenge is workforce migration, as skilled professionals seek opportunities abroad, straining local facilities. In August 2024, Nigeria introduced the National Policy on Health Workforce Migration, improving conditions, offering incentives, and supporting career development. Salary increments, job security, and welfare packages curb migration. Reintegration programmes, competitive salaries, and entrepreneurship grants attract diaspora professionals.

Budgetary constraints threaten reforms. The proposed 2025 budget allocates 5.18 percent (2.48 trillion naira) to healthcare, below the 15 percent Abuja Declaration target. Efficient resource use is essential. SWAp maximises limited funds by aligning donor contributions with policies. Domestic investment, public-private partnerships, and expanded tax revenue sustain progress.

Nigeria’s renewed focus on healthcare signals a turning point. Progress through NHSRII, immunisation, and workforce retention reflects public health commitment. Recognising achievements energises the sector. Celebrating milestones and addressing challenges builds resilience, enhancing societal well-being. Sustained investment, collaboration, and accountability ensure lasting impact.