Nigerian Government Recommits To Universal Health Coverage

Government has again assured Nigerians of it’s commitment towards achieving Universal Health Coverage.

The Minister of Health, Dr Osagie Ehanire gave the assurance at a symposium on repositioning the healthcare sector organised by Healthcare Transformation Coalition (HTC) in Abuja.

Dr Ehanire described healthcare as ‘a critical component’ in human capital development which must be given priority attention.

The Minister lauded the Nigerian government for improving the healthcare of Nigerians, saying “the symposium would offer the country the opportunity to explore areas of improvement.”

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Dr Ehanire said “the objective of government was to build health coverage for no fewer than 90% of the nation’s population.”

He explained that the provision of quality health financing mechanism and continuous improvement to healthcare, especially in the rural areas, were also their priority.

Closing gap

A former Commissioner for Health, Lagos, Dr Jide Idris said that it was time to close the gaps inherent in Nigeria’s health sector.

Idris said innovations and ideas were required to engender rapid health development in Nigeria.

Universal Health Coverage, UHC, seeks to ensure that people have access to the healthcare they need without much financial hardship.

NAN/ Mercy Chukwudiebere