The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, has unveiled a comprehensive healthcare agenda aimed at revolutionising Nigeria’s health sector under the visionary leadership of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu.
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Prof. Pate who made this known during his speech at Ministerial Press Briefings organized by the Ministry of Information and National Orientation in Abuja the nations capital, highlighted the administration’s steadfast commitment to enhancing healthcare accessibility, affordability, and quality, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s healthcare reform efforts.
Emphasizing the pivotal role of primary healthcare in promoting the well-being of citizens, Prof. Pate underscored the government’s commitment to revitalising primary healthcare facilities nationwide.
“Through strategic investments and partnerships, the administration aims to equip these facilities with essential resources and personnel to deliver comprehensive services, particularly in rural and underserved areas, thereby improving health outcomes and reducing the burden of preventable diseases.
“Significant progress has been made in maternal and child health, with over 550,000 women now attending their first antenatal care (ANC) visits, armed with essential information and care to enhance pregnancy outcomes and reduce maternal and child mortality.
“The recruitment of 2,497 healthcare professionals and the deployment of Skilled Birth Attendants have bolstered health facility deliveries to a staggering 230,000 per month, signaling a remarkable improvement in healthcare access and utilization,” he added.
Prof. Pate said in a major financial boost to the healthcare sector, the Federal Government announced the release of N50 billion as the first tranche of the Basic Healthcare Fund, doubling the allocation from previous years.
“This infusion of funds will breathe new life into primary healthcare facilities, ensuring that quality care is accessible to all citizens, regardless of their socioeconomic status,” he said.
He said the administration’s efforts to expand health insurance coverage have yielded significant results, with an additional 750,000 Nigerians enrolled since May 2023.
“By supporting enrollment initiatives and streamlining administrative processes, the government has extended coverage to millions of Nigerians, shielding them from the financial burdens associated with healthcare expenses.”
Speaking on Immunization campaign, Prof. Pate said a robust immunization campaigns have been instrumental in protecting the population against vaccine-preventable diseases, with over 5 million children immunized with the Penta vaccine and 10 million children with Td vaccines since the inception of the diphtheria response.
“The swift containment of the diphtheria outbreak exemplifies the government’s commitment to proactive disease control measures and saving lives,” he added.
Addressing the persistent threat of Lassa fever, he said the Federal Government announced comprehensive measures to enhance response capabilities and safeguard the health of Nigerians.
The distribution of essential response commodities, coupled with strategic planning and prepositioning of resources, aims to equip healthcare workers and facilities with the necessary tools to effectively manage and contain outbreaks.
In addition to infectious disease control, the administration is focused on preventive healthcare measures, including the successful coverage of HPV vaccination, targeting eligible girls aged 9-14 years. Pre-implementation activities for Phase 2 introduction are underway, underscoring the government’s commitment to combating cervical cancer and ensuring the health and well-being of women and girls.
Furthermore, significant investments in tertiary healthcare infrastructure and support to states in combating Lassa fever highlight the government’s commitment to providing specialized care and strengthening collective response efforts.
“Collaborative initiatives to address healthcare workforce shortages and embrace digitalization underscore the administration’s proactive approach to advancing the healthcare system.
“The Federal Government’s decisive action to address rising pharmaceutical costs, fortify pharmaceutical infrastructure, and advance healthcare data management reflects its commitment to improving health outcomes and promoting safety standards. Strategic partnerships and funding initiatives aimed at promoting medical industrialization further demonstrate the government’s commitment to unlocking the full potential of the healthcare sector,” he said.
Prof. Pate reaffirmed the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to advancing the health and well-being of every Nigerian.
While celebrating the achievements thus far, he emphasized that much work remains to be done.
“The government remains steadfast in its resolve to build a healthier, more resilient nation, and will continue to collaborate with stakeholders at all levels to achieve its vision of a thriving healthcare system for all.”
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