HFN, Stakeholders Chart Way Forward To Achieving Universal Health Coverage In Nigeria

The Healthcare Federation of Nigeria (HFN) successfully hosted the highly anticipated Healthcare Leadership Conference 2023, a pivotal event that convened top dignitaries, healthcare experts, and thought leaders to chart a transformative path for healthcare in West Africa.

This year’s conference was graced by the presence of the Special Adviser to the Nigerian President on Health, Dr. Salma Anas. Themed “Igniting Change: Mobilizing Healthcare in West Africa for a Sustainable Future,” the event truly lived up to its theme as healthcare leaders from across West Africa gathered to exchange insights and ideas.

Distinguished attendees included the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi; Ogun State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker; Imo State Commissioner of Health, Dr. Success Prosper-Ohayagha; Osun State Commissioner for Health, Mr. Jola Akintola, ESQ; Ondo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Banji Ajaka; Edo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Samuel Ali; Director General, Central Purchasing for Essential Generic Medicines (CAMEG-Togo), Dr. Assih Mamessile Aklah; Senior Health Specialist, World Bank Group, Dr. Olumide Okunola; Executive Vice Chairman, Bridge Clinic, Dr. Richardson Ajayi, amongst others.

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In her opening remarks, Dr. Pamela Ajayi, the President of the HFN, explained that integrating the public and private sectors in healthcare is essential to achieve Universal Health Coverage in Nigeria.

She emphasized the necessity of effective collaboration while safeguarding patient interests. Dr. Ajayi stressed that this integrated approach will lead to a healthcare system that combines private-sector innovation with public-sector inclusivity, ensuring better outcomes for all.

Delivering the keynote address, the Special Adviser to the President of Nigeria on Health, Dr. Salma Anas, delivered a compelling speech that highlighted the pressing need for increased public-private partnerships within the healthcare sector. Dr. Anas remarked, “Although the healthcare industry’s progress is commendable, there is still ample room for enhancement.”

She further emphasized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s endorsement of domestic solutions and the adoption of best practices, promoting a collaborative partnership between the government and the private sector. “The President is committed to exploring local vaccine and medicine production to enhance the health sector’s self-sufficiency,” she added.

Also contributing to the discourse was the Lagos State Commissioner of Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, who elaborated on the conference’s broader implications, emphasizing its potential to facilitate in-depth discussions surrounding sustainable healthcare delivery across Africa. Furthermore, he stressed the importance of forging robust partnerships with the private sector to enhance healthcare provision.

The conference also featured thought-provoking panel discussions that explored critical topics on public-private integration in the business of healthcare and creating an enabling environment for health innovations to thrive. Distinguished panelists included Dr. Jennifer Anyanti, Prof. Chimezie Anyakora, Mr. Abiodun Amokomowo, Olusola Ogunsola, Prof. Ahmed Ahidjo, Irene Nwauka, Dr. Chibuzo Opara, Dr. Debo Odulana, Mr Isaac Nkrumah, Rory Assandey and the Vice President of the HFN, Mrs. Njide Ndili.

During these discussions, a crucial resolution emerged. It was unanimously agreed that the regulatory environment should be comprehensively reviewed to attract private sector participation, especially at the primary healthcare (PHC) level. This resolution underscores the conference’s commitment to deepening robust public-private partnerships that can transform the healthcare landscape across West Africa. Such partnerships, starting at the grassroots level, are expected to enhance accessibility, affordability, and the overall quality of healthcare services.

The HFN is a coalition of stakeholders in the private healthcare sector. It is an apolitical, non-partisan, nonprofit organization whose aim is to collectively advocate for improving Nigeria’s private health sector.