Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu, CEO of the Medicaid Cancer Foundation and President-Elect of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), has commended the Federal Executive Council’s (FEC) approval of $1.07 billion for healthcare sector reform and HIV treatment expansion, describing it as a critical step towards strengthening Nigeria’s primary healthcare system.
In an exclusive interview with Juliana Olayinka of Channels TV, Dr. Bagudu stressed the urgent need for sustained investment in primary healthcare, particularly in addressing maternal and child health challenges. She noted that the newly approved HOPE programme could be a game-changer for Nigeria’s healthcare sector, with a focus on improving governance, expanding access to healthcare services, and reducing preventable deaths.
She highlighted that primary healthcare is the first point of contact for millions of Nigerians, particularly women and children, and that the funding provides a vital opportunity to enhance infrastructure, expand access to skilled healthcare professionals, and improve vaccine distribution. The HOPE programme, which is financed through two $500 million concessional loans from the International Development Association (IDA) along with an additional $70 million in grant funding, is designed to address systemic weaknesses within the country’s healthcare system.
Dr. Bagudu pointed out that while infant mortality rates have improved over the past 25 years, maternal mortality remains alarmingly high due to poor healthcare resources, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to prenatal and emergency care. She emphasised that the provision of essential diagnostic tools such as ultrasound machines in primary healthcare centres would significantly enhance the detection of high-risk pregnancies, thereby ensuring safer deliveries and reducing maternal deaths.
Beyond maternal and child health, the FEC’s approval also includes ₦4.8 billion for HIV treatment, which will go towards the procurement of 150,000 HIV treatment packs over the next four months. Dr. Bagudu welcomed this initiative, stating that it underscores the government’s commitment to reducing healthcare costs and improving access to life-saving treatment for vulnerable populations.
She also stressed the importance of governance, transparency, and long-term sustainability in ensuring that the allocated funds are used effectively. While securing financing is an important step, she noted that the real challenge lies in ensuring that these resources are properly implemented to achieve the intended impact. The success of these reforms, she said, would depend on strong leadership, effective management, and strategic collaboration between government agencies, healthcare professionals, and international partners.
Addressing concerns about the potential impact of recent U.S. policy changes on Nigeria’s health programmes, particularly in the areas of HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria treatment, Dr. Bagudu acknowledged the government’s proactive approach in forming a multi-ministerial committee to develop a transition and sustainability plan. The committee, which includes representatives from the Ministries of Finance, Health, Defence, and Environment, as well as the Governors’ Forum, has been tasked with ensuring that those currently receiving treatment do not face disruptions due to external funding changes.
She reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to ensuring that healthcare services remain accessible and sustainable, regardless of global economic uncertainties. She also acknowledged the important role international partners have played in supporting Nigeria’s health sector and expressed optimism that the HOPE programme, alongside other health sector reforms, would pave the way for a stronger, more resilient healthcare system in the country.