Coordinating minister of health and social welfare, Prof. Ali Pate and Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji have said the federal and state governments are ready to set the appropriate course for achieving a high-quality healthcare system for Nigerians.
They spoke in Ado Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital at the regular 64th session of the National Council On Health meeting with the theme: “Building a Resilient and Inclusive Healthcare System for a Healthy Nigeria.”
In his address, Pate described Universal Health Coverage (UHC) as the embodiment of the vision of President Bola Tinubu-led administration for a healthier and more prosperous nation.
Pate said achieving UHC is not a choice but an obligation and a promise to provide quality healthcare to all Nigerians regardless of their socio-economic status which has a strategic advantage for the nation.
The minister said the government realized that a lot of the determinants of health are outside the direct control of the Health Sector and it was the reason for the combination of social welfare to the ministry.
“Though great progress has been made over the years, the pace has not been commensurate with the investments and the complexities of our health system have only added to the drag in the movement towards achievement of our collective goals.
“The health of our people is not just a matter of well-being but a fundamental human right. It is a measure of our commitment to equity, justice, and the dignity of every individual,’’ he said.
Oyebanji who declared the meeting open said access to healthcare is a fundamental right, adding that institutional governance is the key to ensuring that this right is upheld.
He added that, “By strengthening healthcare infrastructure, optimising service delivery and promoting good governance, we pave the way for the realization of universal health coverage, leaving no one behind.
“The theme underscores our collective commitment to delivering a healthcare system that is robust, resilient, and inclusive, ensuring that every Nigerian has equitable access to quality healthcare without financial hardship.”
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