Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate has challenged the prevailing notion that quality healthcare is inaccessible within Nigeria.
Speaking in Abuja on Friday, Pate acknowledged the sector’s challenges while underscoring the administration’s efforts to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and improve local health facility capacity.
According to the minister, Nigeria has world-class medical professionals, many of whom have returned from abroad to contribute to the national healthcare system. He cited instances of prominent Nigerians receiving high-quality care locally, challenging the perception that elite medical tourism is necessary for adequate treatment. For example, he referenced a former vice president who recently underwent successful treatment in Lagos, highlighting the capabilities of Nigeria’s healthcare system.
Pate raised a critical point about the impact on public confidence when top officials seek medical care abroad. While individuals have the right to choose their care, such decisions can inadvertently signal a lack of trust in Nigeria’s healthcare system. In contrast, he noted, leaders from other African countries often come to Nigeria for medical treatment, emphasising the potential of the country’s healthcare facilities.
Pate detailed plans for six new cancer care facilities and other key projects to modernise healthcare services, outlining the administration’s commitment to expanding healthcare infrastructure. He asserted that these initiatives represent the government’s commitment to addressing disparities in healthcare access and improving service quality for all Nigerians.
In line with this commitment, Pate announced a new initiative to publish scorecards assessing each state’s healthcare performance. “This initiative is designed to promote transparency and accountability in the health sector and represents a significant milestone in Nigeria’s healthcare reporting,” he stated.
The minister also stressed the importance of reliable data management as the backbone of effective health governance. “By centralising data, we aim to create a single source of truth, improve health outcomes, and ensure that reforms are built on measurable progress,” he said.
With ongoing reforms and a clear commitment to collaboration across federal, state, and local levels, Pate expressed optimism about Nigeria’s path towards improved healthcare delivery. He underscored the potential to foster trust in local facilities and reduce health disparities, ultimately leading to better care for all Nigerians.
