The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has highlighted the achievements of President Bola Tinubu’s administration in the health sector, emphasizing its commitment to transforming healthcare in Nigeria. Akume noted that Tinubu inherited a health sector plagued by persistent challenges, including stagnation in key health indicators. However, swift interventions have demonstrated the administration’s dedication to addressing these issues.
Strategic Policy Reforms and Renewed Hope Health Agenda
Speaking at the 2025 Strategic Health Summit in Abuja, themed “One Vision, One Future: Uniting Stakeholders for a Healthier Nigeria,” Akume stated that the president’s expert-driven approach led to the creation of the Health Subcommittee within the Presidential Advisory Council, headed by Dr. Salma Ibrahim Anas, now the Special Adviser on Health. This subcommittee played a pivotal role in shaping the Renewed Hope Health Agenda, a strategic policy initiative guiding healthcare transformation.
“Mr. President’s dedication to prioritizing health predates his election and assumption of office,” Akume remarked, noting that the Health Transformation Coalition (HTC) was instrumental in shaping his Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda.
Key Healthcare Achievements Under Tinubu
Akume outlined several transformative initiatives undertaken by the Tinubu administration:
- Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSRII): Launched in December 2023, this initiative focuses on effective governance, improved health outcomes, unlocking the health sector value chain, and strengthening health security.
- Health Renewal Compact: Signed by Federal and State Governments alongside development partners, this compact reinforces collaboration to achieve UHC.
- Presidential Initiative on Unlocking Value Chain (PVAC): Aimed at boosting local pharmaceutical manufacturing, medical device production, and healthcare technology development.
- Executive Order on Healthcare: President Tinubu introduced zero tariffs, excise duties, and VAT on specified medical equipment and raw materials, reducing production costs and enhancing local manufacturing competitiveness.
Addressing Medical Tourism and Healthcare Workforce Migration
Dr. Salma Ibrahim Anas highlighted additional efforts to curb outward medical tourism and the mass exodus of healthcare professionals. The National Policy on Health Workforce Migration, approved by President Tinubu, seeks to address the “Japa” syndrome, which has led to a significant loss of skilled healthcare workers.
“In February 2024, President Tinubu approved the upgrade of 16 health facilities nationwide and the establishment of six Centers of Excellence for Cancer Care to reduce medical tourism and attract patients to Nigeria,” Dr. Anas stated.
Sector-Wide Coordination for Better Healthcare Delivery
The administration has also introduced the Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp), spearheaded by Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate. This framework enhances policy alignment, coordination, and efficiency in healthcare implementation.
“As we approach the midpoint of this administration’s first term, this summit serves as a crucial platform to assess progress, identify gaps, and realign strategies to ensure a resilient and equitable healthcare system in Nigeria,” Dr. Anas emphasized.
Commitment to a Healthier Nigeria
Senator Akume reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sustaining momentum in healthcare transformation. “These interventions reflect President Tinubu’s recognition of healthcare as a fundamental pillar of national development,” he concluded.
With these bold reforms, the Tinubu administration continues to push for sustainable healthcare development, ensuring accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare for all Nigerians.
