A consultant neurosurgeon and health reform advocate, Dr. Douglas Okor has urged Nigeria’s political leadership to take urgent responsibility for rebuilding the country’s failing healthcare system through deliberate mindset shifts and clear priority-setting.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Wednesday, Okor emphasised that meaningful health sector reform must begin with top-level commitment, from the Presidency to the National Assembly and down to ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) at all levels.
“Health sector improvement starts from the top,” he said. “All MDAs, federal and state governments, and lawmakers must understand that health is not optional. It’s a core public good. You cannot develop a country without fixing your healthcare system.”
Citing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3 (good health and well-being), Okor described functional healthcare as the bedrock of national development. He called on leaders to match words with action by ensuring adequate funding and demonstrating the political will to implement change.
He also highlighted the essential role of civil society, professional bodies, faith-based organisations and, especially the media, in elevating health to a top national issue.
“The media must mainstream healthcare and drive the conversation so Nigerians can appreciate its urgency,” he said.
With the 2027 general elections already drawing public attention, Okor urged voters to hold political aspirants accountable by demanding specific, practical plans for health sector reform.
“Our healthcare system is weak and broken. The question every citizen must ask is: ‘What are you going to do about healthcare?’” he said.
Okor warned that reform must not be limited to the urban elite but must reach all Nigerians, especially those in rural areas. He identified two critical areas needing urgent attention: Nigeria’s underfunded, poorly coordinated primary healthcare system and its fragile emergency medical services.
“We must build a system that serves everyone. Leadership must model this commitment. Only then will real reform take root,” he said.
