By Iyemah David
The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, is set to unveil the National Investment Initiative towards the attainment of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in the country.
A compact to actualise this initiative will be sign in Abuja by the Federal and State governments and development partners on UHC day, December 12, 2023.
The Coordinating Ministry of Health and Social Development, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, disclosed this at a pre-event press briefing on Monday in Abuja, while educating newsmen on the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSRII) and its significance in achieving UHC for Nigeria.
He said that the country was committed to UHC and the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was determined to deliver equitable and optimal health outcomes for the nation.
“The quest to achieve UHC and better health for all Nigerians requires a multi-sector and whole-of-government approach.
“Further to this, the Nigerian Government has articulated NHSRII to advance the nation’s journey towards UHC. The Initiative comprises the Basic Healthcare Provision SWAp and the Nigerian healthcare industrialization programme,” he said.
Prof. Pate He said that the NHSRII directly confronts poor population health outcomes, intensified by highly inequitable and geospatial disparities.
He said that the Initiative would leverage the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF), in partnership with state governments and development partners in a transformational sector wide approach programme to improve health outcomes.
He said that this would include plans to train additional human resources for health and make available at least 17,000 functional public Primary healthcare centres.
“The commitment to expanding the Basic Health Care Provision Fund and increasing the number of primary healthcare centres, aligns with the National Health Act’s objectives.
“The comprehensive strategy outlined involves assessing existing facilities, improving infrastructure, ensuring a sufficient health workforce, and actively engaging local communities for feedback.
“The emphasis to increase the number of primary healthcare centres from 8,000 to more than 17,000 demonstrates a dedication to fulfil the President Tinubu’s vision for improved access to basic healthcare in Nigeria.
“The challenge of functionality in existing wards is acknowledged, and the commitment to addressing these concerns is evident in the strategy being implemented,” he said.
He said that the initiative aims to guide the renewal of Nigeria’s health system, which is part of government’s broader health agenda.
The minister said that the focus was on driving towards UHC, ensuring that every Nigerian, regardless of location, economic status, or employment, can access essential services for a healthy life without financial strain.
Also speaking, Dr Muyi Aina, the Executive Director, National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA), said strengthening primary healthcare was a crucial step towards building a sustainable healthcare system that can effectively respond to the healthcare needs of the population.
He said this would contribute to the overall development and well-being of Nigerians.
Dr Aina added that the successful implementation of the NHSRII by PHC can significantly contribute to achieving UHC in the country, ensuring that every Nigerian has access to quality healthcare services without suffering financial hardship.
He also disclosed that health workers, recently employed under the Expanded Midwives Service Scheme (eMSS), were currently receiving payment, with the process still ongoing.
He emphasised the agency’s acknowledgment of the health workers’ dedication amid challenges.
He assured the health workers that their salaries were a top priority for the administration.
“We have initiated the payment process, including a three-month arrears. Payments for outstanding salaries in August, September and October are underway. And for those awaiting payment, we advise patience as the process continues,” he stated.
Explaining the delays, he outlined the necessary steps taken before initiating salary payments. These include documentation verification, orientation on roles and responsibilities, and the uploading of bank details on the Government Integrated Financial Management System (GIFMIS) platform.
The NPHCDA boss acknowledged interruptions in the process due to errors in the account details of Skilled Birth Attendants (SBAs) or mismatches between names and account numbers.
“Rectifying these errors took time, mainly because SBAs did not adhere to timelines for responding to the issues. However, all health workers with correct details have now received their salaries,” he clarified.
Expressing gratitude for the health workers’ commitment, he apologised for any inconveniences caused, reaffirming NPHCDA’s dedication to promoting the health of Nigerians.
He also highlighted the agency’s commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in line with the government’s promise to provide quality healthcare for all.
He connected this vision to President Tinubu’s aspiration for a healthier and more prosperous nation.
The Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Day is observed on December 12 every year to stress the need for a healthcare system that provides equitable and good healthcare along with financial protection to everyone who needs it near the area where they live.
United Nations designated this day to be marked as anniversary of the unanimous endorsement of UHC in 2012 as an essential priority for international development.
