By Muhammad Amaan
The Federal Government of Nigeria on Tuesday stressed the need for Nigeria to have access to stable and secured oxygen supply noting its importance to maternal health, pandemic preparedness and emergency response.
The government also said oxygen security remains an important component that defines the quality of care in keeping the principle of Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Ms Daju Kachollom made the assertions during the 2026 edition of the National Oxygen Coordination Committee in Abuja.
Kachollom said, “We were in a race against time and logistics, so we focused on the physical deployment of infrastructure (getting Pressure Swing Adsorption Plants, Liquid Oxygen tanks, and Oxygen Optimization Equipment) into our facilities.
“We have made incredible strides in that regard. However, physical presence is not the same as functional impact. Today, we move the needle forward.
“Our theme, “Beyond Access,” is a call to honesty. We must acknowledge a hard truth: a machine that is not maintained, or a system that is not funded, is not a solution but it is a liability in disguise. In other words, succinctly speaking.
“It is no longer enough to “have” oxygen; we must “guarantee” oxygen. This year, we have intentionally expanded our circle. I am particularly pleased to see the Commissioners and Executive Secretaries in attendance. Your presence signifies a vital shift in re-commitment to our national strategy.
“By sitting at this table, you are acknowledging that oxygen security is central to maternal health, emergency response, and pandemic preparedness. It is an important component that defines the quality of care in keeping the principles of Universal Health Coverage.
“We are for commitment-making. The equipment we have installed is made of steel and sensors, but the system we are building is made of people, policy, and political will. We are not just buying machines; we are building a resilient ecosystem designed to outlive our current tenures and serve generations to come.”
Also speaking at the event, the Head of the National Oxygen Desk, FMOH, Dr. Gilbert Shetak noted that the government will continue to work towards the expansion of oxygen sustainability across hospitals nationwide.
Similarly, the Senior Programme manager, Clinton Health Access Initiative, Lekia Nwidae appreciated efforts by the Federal Government and development partners towards achieving oxygen sustainability in Nigeria.
She also urged participants at the programme to reflect and strategize on the way forward.
Nigeria is facing a significant challenge in ensuring oxygen sustainability, with pneumonia being the leading cause of death for children under five, accounting for an estimated 20-40% of pneumonia deaths that could have been prevented with accessible medical oxygen therapy.
To address this, development partners like UNICEF, Clinton Health Access Initiative and FHI 360 have continued to work together to improve oxygen supply and infrastructure in Nigerian hospitals.
The Federal Ministry of Health has also launched the National Strategy for the Scale-Up of Medical Oxygen in Nigeria, 2023-2027, to prevent deaths from hypoxemia.
These efforts aim to improve healthcare accessibility and delivery of services, particularly in underserved regions. The oxygen plants are already showing positive results, with hospitals reporting improved oxygen supply and reduced mortality.
