The Federal Government has inaugurated a committee tasked with establishing the National Health Facility Regulatory Agency (NHFRA), which will play a critical role in ensuring that healthcare facilities across Nigeria adhere to the highest standards of care.
Speaking at the inauguration in Abuja, Minister of State for Health, Dr. Tunji Alausa emphasised the importance of having a robust regulatory framework to tackle the evolving challenges in the healthcare sector.
“Our healthcare facilities are the frontline in our battle against disease—the sanctuary where life begins and, often, where it is saved,” Alausa said. “We must ensure that these institutions operate at the highest possible standards, providing care that is not just adequate but exemplary and ethical.”
The minister highlighted that the committee’s formation reflects the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s strong commitment to improving healthcare standards nationwide. He cited international regulatory models, such as the United Kingdom’s Care Quality Commission (CQC) and the United States’ Joint Commission, as inspirations for NHFRA.
Alausa outlined the committee’s mandate, which includes designing NHFRA’s organizational structure, drafting enabling legislation, developing comprehensive operational guidelines, engaging with stakeholders, mobilising resources, and preparing an implementation plan. He urged committee members to bring their expertise, dedication and commitment to achieving this ambitious vision.
The establishment of NHFRA is expected to significantly improve the safety, efficiency and equity of Nigeria’s healthcare system. Alausa assured the committee of his full support and noted that the agency can serve as a model for other countries in the region.
Chairman of the NHFRA Committee, Dr. Richard Ajayi explained that the agency will take a novel approach by focusing on service-oriented healthcare, emphasising patient safety and quality care, rather than just professional regulation.
“This is the first time the country will have an agency focused on service,” Ajayi stated. “We will model this to prioritise patient safety, deliver effective nutrition therapy and ensure we are responsive and caring. With the kind of committee that the Honorable Minister has put together, I am confident we will achieve the objectives of building a better healthcare framework for Nigeria.”
The Kwara State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Amina Ahmed El-Imam stressed the urgency of addressing critical health issues like maternal and child mortality. She emphasised that better regulation and improved quality of care are key to achieving better health outcomes.
“The direction that the Ministry of Health is taking is to significantly and rapidly address indicators that put the country in a bad light, notably maternal and child mortality,” El-Imam said. “This will help ensure that women do not die while having children and that the quality of care provided encourages health-seeking behaviour, directly impacting health outcomes.”
The Ogun State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker highlighted the importance of establishing standards for healthcare facilities, ensuring accountability, and improving the quality of care. Coker focused particularly on reducing maternal and child mortality in Nigeria.
“Nigerians should look forward to being able to exercise their right to good and quality care,” Coker affirmed. “We will regulate those who provide care for our children and mothers to ensure that the unacceptable mortality rates we currently see decrease significantly in the coming years.”
Earlier in her remarks, the permanent secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Ms. Daju Kachollom emphasised the significance of the committee’s task in establishing NHFRA, noting its vital role in ensuring the safety, efficiency, and equity of healthcare services across Nigeria.
“Your work will serve as the blueprint for an agency that will play a crucial role in safeguarding the health and well-being of all Nigerians,” Kachollom stated.
The inauguration of this committee represents a significant step forward in the government’s commitment to reforming and strengthening the healthcare system in Nigeria, ensuring that citizens receive quality healthcare in a safe and regulated environment.
