The National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) has highlighted the critical importance of strategically utilising resources and developing human capital as key drivers for advancing healthcare in Nigeria.
This emphasis was made clear by the executive director of NPHCDA, Dr. Muyi Aina during a strategic stakeholders’ engagement session held on Thursday in Abuja.
The engagement, as reported by Science Nigeria, aimed to harness a multi-stakeholder approach to strengthening primary healthcare (PHC) delivery and accountability. It also sought to identify the roles of non-state actors in the implementation of NPHCDA’s strategic vision. Aina acknowledged the progress that has been made in the realm of primary healthcare but noted that the pace has been too slow, necessitating a renewed focus on acceleration.
“The goal now is to build on past efforts and accelerate progress,” Aina stated. He clarified that the NPHCDA does not directly operate health facilities; rather, it plays a supportive role by aiding states and local governments in improving their healthcare services. The agency’s focus lies in policy development, providing guidance, and mobilizing resources to ensure effective healthcare delivery.
A significant emphasis was placed on the efficient use of available resources. While Aina acknowledged that funding is crucial, he underscored that the real challenge lies in how resources are allocated and utilised. “The importance of coordination, avoiding duplication of efforts and focusing on the quality of spending rather than just the quantity of funds is highlighted,” he explained.
Aina also stressed the necessity of collaboration beyond mere financial support. He called for the sharing of ideas, experiences, and technical assistance from those in the field to ensure that resources are used effectively and not wasted. This collaboration, according to him, is vital for achieving the broader goals of the NPHCDA, especially in areas where healthcare resources are scarce.
The NPHCDA executive director touched on the challenges related to human resources in healthcare, including the migration of healthcare workers and the need for better distribution, capacity building, and skill development. He highlighted the partnership between the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Forum of Nigeria, NPHCDA and civil society organisations (CSOs) as a driving force behind the goal of making basic healthcare services accessible to all Nigerians.
Under the leadership of the Coordinating Minister for Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate significant progress has been made toward achieving President Tinubu’s healthcare initiatives. Aina emphasised the importance of transparency, community engagement and the role of the media in sharing the progress and impact of these healthcare initiatives.
Co-convener of the UHC Forum, Dr. Garfa Alawode elaborated on the strategy to leverage political transitions, such as elections, to place Universal Health Coverage (UHC) at the forefront of Nigeria’s political agenda. He cited the successes of countries like Ghana and Rwanda in advancing their health systems by engaging political leaders during election periods. “This approach inspired the creation of the Nigerian UHC Forum, which aimed to develop a citizen-led health agenda that influenced key political aspirants ahead of the 2023 elections,” he explained.
Chief of public health at UNICEF, Dr. Eduardo Celades emphasised the importance of supporting the Federal Ministry of Health and the NPHCDA in light of new health sector reforms. Celades noted that addressing inequalities in key PHC outcomes, such as high maternal mortality and the presence of zero-dose children, is critical.
From the perspective of state-level implementation, executive secretary of the Yobe State Primary Healthcare Management Board, Dr. Babagana Kundi Machina spoke on behalf of the Forum of CEOs of state primary healthcare development agencies (SPHCDAs). He expressed the forum’s commitment to mobilizing additional resources for primary healthcare centers (PHCs) across their states. Machina stressed that the CEOs are dedicated to ensuring accountability in the utilization of these resources to achieve better health outcomes for Nigerians.
Further emphasising the importance of local governance, chairman of the Health Sector Reform Coalition, Dr. Mohammed Lecky highlighted the need to leverage local government autonomy, as promoted by the NPHCDA, to accelerate the PHC agenda in Nigeria. Lecky identified this autonomy as crucial for enhancing effective service delivery and accountability in the health sector.
Regional director of Options Consultancy Services, Dr. Ufuoma Obi echoed the need to harness collective efforts and resources from all stakeholders to forge consensus for effective PHC delivery. This collaboration, he stressed, is essential to reduce maternal and under-5 mortality and to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC). Omo Obi underscored the importance of harmonising efforts across stakeholders within the health ecosystem to achieve these goals.
The forum brought together key stakeholders from various sectors, including representatives from international organisations, healthcare professionals and policymakers. Discussions centered on strategies to enhance the effectiveness of primary healthcare delivery, with particular attention to rural areas that often face the most significant challenges. Participants also highlighted the importance of continuous professional development for healthcare workers and the need for innovative approaches to health financing.
As part of NPHCDA’s ongoing efforts, new initiatives aimed at strengthening healthcare infrastructure and expanding immunisation coverage were announced. These initiatives are expected to play a crucial role in reducing the burden of preventable diseases and improving overall health indicators across the country.
The event concluded with a call to action for all stakeholders to work collaboratively in driving Nigeria’s healthcare agenda forward. With a shared vision of achieving Universal Health Coverage by 2030, the NPHCDA and its partners are poised to make significant strides in improving healthcare outcomes for all Nigerians.
