The Social Advancement Forum (SAF) has applauded what it described as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to healthcare reforms.
It noted that the administration’s focused interventions and policy concessions are paving the way for more affordable medicines and improved health services for Nigerians.
In a communiqué issued by the SAF Secretary, Shehu Atta, its Chairman, Tahir Ibrahim Tahir, expressed appreciation to President Tinubu and the Minister of Health and Social Development, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, for their visionary leadership and strategic reforms in the health sector.
“We acknowledge that the government launched the National Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSRII) in December 2023 and signed a pact with all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. This initiative aims to build a health system that is equitable, resilient, and accessible to all Nigerians.
“The NHSRII offers a unified framework for reducing inefficiencies, minimizing fragmentation, and aligning the efforts of federal, state, and local governments with private sector and development partners. To date, it has mobilized over $3 billion in external funding, with significant domestic investments projected over the next four years. This sector-wide approach has positioned Nigeria as a regional leader in healthcare system accountability and reform.
“We are also aware that in response to the rising cost of healthcare, President Tinubu announced a restructuring of the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) to expand access to essential services, in line with the National Health Act of 2014.
“The impact of these initiatives is especially visible in the revitalization of Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) across the country as the President has since approved the establishment of over 8,800 new PHCs nationwide and the upgrading of existing tertiary institutions to better handle trauma, oncology, and infectious disease control.
“By the end of 2025, the expectations are that more than 2,100 PHCs are expected to be fully functional.
“It is a fact that with improved funding and infrastructure, these PHCs are now delivering essential services—from immunizations to maternal and child healthcare. For countless pregnant women who once had to walk several kilometres to access care, these upgrades are not just policy—they are life-changing.
“To address the longstanding challenges of maternal and newborn health, the government also launched the Maternal Mortality Reduction Innovation Initiative, initially targeting 172 high-burden local government areas. As part of an expanded National Health Insurance Authority package, pre-qualified poor and vulnerable women now have access to free caesarean sections at accredited facilities, helping to prevent tragic outcomes from obstetric complications.
“This effort is bolstered by the National Emergency Medical Service and Ambulance System, which provides urgent transport for patients in critical condition,” the group explained.
The group also provided insight into efforts by the Tinubu administration to stem the tide of infectious diseases.
It said: “Beyond maternal health, the administration has intensified efforts to combat infectious diseases. Significant investments have been made in malaria prevention, treatment, and vaccination—aiming to eradicate one of the country’s deadliest diseases, particularly among children under five.
“We note that the authorities are engaged in strategic partnerships with the World Health Organization (WHO), The Global Fund, the U.S. Government, and other stakeholders in efforts to advance the fight against tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS.
“Sustainable financing has been a cornerstone of these reforms. In 2023, the health sector budget increased by an unprecedented 41.5%, rising from ₦826.9 billion ($532 million) in 2022 to ₦1.17 trillion ($753 million). For 2025, the proposed budget further increases healthcare funding by 58.5%, from ₦1.62 trillion to ₦2.56 trillion.
“This financial boost has revitalized PHCs, expanded health insurance coverage, and strengthened the nation’s health security. Notably, over 2 million more Nigerians have enrolled in the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) in the past year—bringing the total number of insured individuals to 19.2 million. The Medical Relief Program ensures that vulnerable populations receive subsidies for essential services, eliminating financial hardship as a barrier to care.
“Workforce development has also been prioritized. More than 53,000 frontline health workers were retrained in the past year, out of a 120,000 target. These community health workers, often the only lifeline in remote areas, are now better equipped to deliver immunizations, educate families, and make timely referrals.
“Under the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain, over $1 billion in investments have been catalyzed for local pharmaceutical and medical device production. Partnerships with international firms are fostering innovation and technology transfer, transforming Nigeria into a regional hub for healthcare manufacturing.
“Substantial progress has also been made in tertiary care. Six state-of-the-art cancer treatment centres are under development in partnership with the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority, with two scheduled to open in May 2025. These facilities will reduce the need for costly and emotionally taxing medical tourism, providing quality care closer to home for Nigerians battling life-threatening conditions.
“While the government acknowledges the need to further strengthen and sustain financial and structural reforms, the progress to date clearly demonstrates that transformative change is not only possible—it is already underway. This transformation is reflected in improved public confidence, lives saved, and the sweeping modernization of the health sector.”
The group was emphatic that healthcare has now assumed its rightful place as a national priority on President Bola Tinubu’s watch, adding that the administration’s commitment to the well-being of Nigerians deserves commendation.
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