The Federal Government has pledged to review and implement the recommendations of the Committee on the Establishment of the National Healthcare Facility Regulatory Agency (NHFRA) to enhance healthcare standards and oversight in Nigeria.
The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako gave this assurance on Thursday in Abuja while receiving the committee’s report. He emphasised the government’s commitment to ensuring that the recommendations translate into concrete actions that will strengthen the country’s healthcare sector.
“Let me assure you that this report will not gather dust on the shelves. We are committed to putting its recommendations into action to strengthen the healthcare sector,” Salako stated.
He clarified that NHFRA is not intended to replace existing regulatory bodies but will complement them by setting national healthcare standards and supporting state governments in their regulatory responsibilities.
“The goal is to define national standards of practice and create a body that supports states in monitoring and enforcing compliance,” he explained, noting that improved regulation is crucial for enhancing healthcare delivery across the country.
The NHFRA committee, chaired by Dr. Richardson Ajayi, was established to develop a framework that addresses gaps in healthcare facility regulation. Ajayi highlighted that the report includes a draft establishment bill, a resource mobilisation plan and a comprehensive implementation strategy.
“The creation of NHFRA is a key step in ensuring all healthcare facilities in Nigeria meet essential care standards,” he said.
Permanent secretary of the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Ms. Daju Kachallom described NHFRA as a necessary initiative to address longstanding regulatory gaps in both public and private healthcare facilities. Represented by director of the food and drugs department, Pharm. Olubunmi Aribeana, Kachallom commended the committee for its diligent efforts since September 2024.
Nigeria’s healthcare system has long suffered from weak regulatory frameworks and poor accountability, leading to suboptimal health outcomes. To tackle these challenges, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare is prioritising NHFRA as part of its broader governance and health improvement agenda.
Inspired by international models such as the UK’s Care Quality Commission (CQC) and the US Joint Commission, NHFRA is expected to play a crucial role in improving healthcare standards nationwide. The committee was tasked with designing NHFRA’s structure, drafting legislation, developing operational guidelines, engaging stakeholders and preparing an implementation plan.
Meanwhile, the ministry assured the committee of the government’s full support, expressing confidence that NHFRA will enhance healthcare safety, efficiency and equity while serving as a model for the region. This initiative marks a significant step towards improving healthcare regulation and ensuring better health outcomes for Nigerians.
