The inaugural RMNCAH+N Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp) Technical Working Group (TWG) meeting in Nigeria will focus on strengthening collaborative efforts to improve healthcare services and outcomes, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) has revealed.
Chaired by the executive director of the NPHCDA, Dr. Muyi Aina the meeting brought together various stakeholders, including government officials, NGOs and international partners.
The primary goal was to develop a unified strategy to address high rates of maternal and child mortality, and to enhance healthcare access and quality for women, children and adolescents. Discussions centered on implementing the National Strategy for RMNCAH+N, aligning with international best practices and ensuring robust monitoring and accountability mechanisms.
The collaborative effort aims to reduce preventable deaths and improve the health of Nigeria’s most vulnerable populations. By integrating resources and initiatives across sectors, the TWG seeks to build a more resilient healthcare system and drive significant improvements in health outcomes, particularly in underserved areas.
The establishment of the RMNCAH+N SWAp TWG signifies a strategic move towards a coordinated and impactful approach to public health in Nigeria. With continued commitment and cooperation, the TWG is poised to make substantial progress in addressing the nation’s critical health challenges.
The committee, led by Aina and including experts from various fields, has outlined crucial next steps for its work. This collaborative effort is expected to bring about significant improvements in maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health and nutrition across Nigeria.
Other members of the committee director of the nutrition department, Bako Ladiaiyegbusi; Head of reproductive health (RH), Lawrence Anyanwu; Head of child health, Dr Oluseyi Omokore; Child health specialists Prof Hadiza Galadanci and Prof Oladapo Shittu and Dr Joy Ufere from WHO.
Also present were representatives from major international organisations such as USAID, the World Bank/GFF, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF), CIFF, the European Union (EU), UNFPA, STBF and FCDO.
Nigeria recently signed a health sector renewal compact involving federal and state governments, donors, and development partners, emphasising the importance of a sector-wide approach (SWAp) in the health sector for transparency and accountability. SWAps, when well-implemented, can support national policies and contribute to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
While SWAps can be beneficial, their success depends on clear institutional and expenditure frameworks. Without the right content and strategies, a SWAp alone may not achieve its intended objectives.
