Nigerians Outline Hopes, Expectations for Health Sector in 2025
As Nigeria steps into 2025, citizens across the nation are expressing their hopes and expectations for a more effective and equitable health sector. In interviews conducted by Science Nigeria in Abuja, individuals from diverse regions—including Lagos, Kano, Port Harcourt, and Maiduguri—have called for transformative reforms to address systemic challenges, enhance healthcare access, and ensure equitable services for all.
A common demand among Nigerians is for increased government funding for the health sector. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Nigeria’s health expenditure as a percentage of GDP remains below the recommended standard. Citizens are urging both federal and state governments to prioritize investments in healthcare infrastructure, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Bashir Adamu, a community leader in Kaduna, emphasized, “Many of our health facilities are dilapidated, lacking essential equipment and medications. Nigerians want functional hospitals and well-equipped primary healthcare centres in every local government area.”
The affordability of healthcare services is another pressing issue. Rising out-of-pocket expenditures continue to strain households, especially those in low-income brackets. Stakeholders advocate for the expansion of the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) and universal health coverage (UHC) policies to alleviate financial burdens. Joy Chika Nwankwo, a schoolteacher in Enugu, stated, “Healthcare should not be a privilege for the wealthy. The government must make health insurance accessible and affordable for everyone, including informal workers.”
With Nigeria having one of the highest maternal mortality rates globally, there are urgent calls to improve maternal and child health outcomes. Advocacy groups emphasize the need for quality antenatal care and safe delivery services for every pregnant woman. Fatima Usman, a midwife in Maiduguri, asserted, “No woman should die giving life. Every mother deserves access to skilled care and essential services during pregnancy and childbirth.”
The exodus of healthcare professionals remains a critical concern. Citizens urge the government to address this brain drain by improving the welfare, salaries, and working conditions of health workers. Olu Balogun, a public health physician in Lagos, remarked, “Better pay, continuous training, and incentives will encourage our doctors and nurses to stay and serve their communities.”
Recent outbreaks of diseases like Mpox and the persistent threats of cholera, Lassa fever, and malaria have underscored the need for a robust public health response. Experts stress the importance of strengthening disease surveillance, increasing vaccination coverage, and ensuring rapid emergency responses. Ngozi Okafor, a parent in Abuja, noted, “We’ve seen how devastating epidemics can be. The government must invest in public health preparedness and ensure every child gets vaccinated.”
There is optimism surrounding the leadership of the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare under Prof. Ali Pate. However, citizens emphasize the importance of transparency and accountability in implementing health sector policies and programs. Civil society activist Adebola Taiwo stated, “We have capable leaders, but they must ensure that funds are used judiciously and that policies benefit the average Nigerian.”
As Nigerians share their expectations for the health sector, there is a growing consensus that achieving a robust health system will require collaboration among government officials, health workers, private sector players, and citizens. While challenges persist, the hope for a healthier Nigeria remains strong in the hearts of millions.
In summary, the collective aspirations of Nigerians for 2025 reflect a desire for a health sector that is not only functional and accessible but also equitable and responsive to the needs of all citizens. The call for increased funding, improved services, and a commitment to transparency highlights the urgent need for systemic change in Nigeria's healthcare landscape.
