The Nation Newspaper

Category: Health

  • Maternal, infant mortality: FG seeks alignment of policies with stakeholders 

    Maternal, infant mortality: FG seeks alignment of policies with stakeholders 

    The Executive Director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Muyi Aina, has warned against Nigeria’s slow progress in combating maternal mortality. 

    Speaking at the Nigeria Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Forum in Abuja, Aina said the call to action has become imperative considering that Nigeria still holds the highest maternal mortality rate in the world, with 1,047 deaths per 100,000 live births as of 2020. 

    The forum, organized in collaboration with Options Consultancy Services, provided a platform for discussing the priorities of Nigeria’s health sector under President Bola Tinubu and the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate. 

    Aina who called for more urgent action, while decrying the inefficiencies in Nigeria’s healthcare spending, emphasized that the problem lies not in the availability of funds but in their poor allocation and utilization. 

    While acknowledging achievements such as the revitalization of over 8,000 Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCs) across the country, with plans to double the figure by 2027, the ED, nonetheless stressed that much more remains to be done.

    “We already have increases in the number of Nigerians accessing basic services from our health facilities,” he added, noting a 15% increase in immunization rates and rising antenatal care visits.

    “Despite these successes, Nigeria is still far from achieving its health goals”, he noted. 

    Given this, he opined that concerted efforts and the need for more strategic, coordinated approaches to healthcare investment have become inevitable, saying, “We are moving too slowly to where we are supposed to be. 

    “We don’t spend right. If we spend what we have on the ground right, we will cover a lot of gaps.

    “The money is no longer enough; we need your ideas and experiences. We are not in the business of wasting money anymore.”

    Read Also: NIMR partners to curb infant mortality

    Underscoring the importance of partnerships, particularly with civil society organizations (CSOs), in driving health sector renewal, Aina reiterated government’s commitment to transparency, community engagement, and collaboration with the stakeholders to share progress and challenges.

    “Sometimes we are too busy just getting the work done because we are in a hurry for Nigerians to start to feel the impact of President Tinubu’s initiatives.

    “The path ahead is fraught with challenges, but coordinated action and smart spending could accelerate progress in reducing maternal mortality and improving overall healthcare outcomes,” he said.

    Ufuoma Festus, Regional Director at Options Consultancy Services, stressed the need to align policy with ground-level action to achieve UHC in Nigeria. 

    According to him, Federal policies must be effectively implemented at the sub-national level to benefit individuals, particularly the vulnerable.

    While urging stakeholders to move from policy to action, Festus noted that everyone’s contributions to achieving UHC in the nation’s health ecosystem are immeasurable.

    Highlighting the importance of direct government interventions reaching marginalized communities and the role of accountability mechanisms in driving real outcomes, Festus cited African countries such as Kenya and Ghana, where multi-stakeholder platforms reduced maternal and child mortality.

    Saying that collaboration is key to addressing the nation’s healthcare challenges, he urged the stakeholders to draw inspiration from Lagos where a joint effort between civil society and government addressed essential commodity stockouts.

    On his part, Gafar Alawode, Managing Partner at DCI Consult and co-convener of the UFC, said Nigeria has reached a point where it should move beyond discussions to concrete actions, adding that the urgency of implementing strategies to achieve tangible improvements in Nigeria’s healthcare system can not be overemphasized.

    Towards this end, Alawode said the conduct of a thorough policy analysis to guide informed decision-making on the newly financially independent Local Government Area (LGA) and its impact on primary healthcare should be prioritized 

    According to him, the new development at the Local Council level has made it urgently important for the NPHCDA to involve CSOs in its engagements with stakeholders like the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON).

    He also called for a more aligned and efficient approach to healthcare delivery in Nigeria anchored on transparency and community involvement towards improving healthcare services.

    He noted that the introduction of a new dashboard to monitor Primary Healthcare Centers’ performance would go a long way toward achieving that goal.

    He however expressed optimism about the emerging consensus on how NPHCDA will collaborate with stakeholders to streamline efforts across the healthcare sector to avoid duplication of efforts.

    Lucia Laboso, Project Director of E4A MamaYe, in her presentation on ‘Raising the Accountability Bar for PHC Delivery: Key lessons from State Lead Accountability Mechanism (SLAMs)’ that aims to enhance the organizational capacities of SLAMs to collate, analyze, and synthesize evidence-based data that can be used to drive continuous improvements in health sector performance.

  • FG disburses N130b to PHCs

    FG disburses N130b to PHCs

    The federal government has invested N130.8 billion over the past five years to equip primary healthcare centers (PHCs) across the nation.

    In 2024, the government disbursed N25.8 billion, with an additional N12.9 billion set to be released.

    This investment is part of the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF), a strategic initiative aimed at reducing maternal and infant mortality while ensuring quality healthcare is accessible to all Nigerians, particularly the most vulnerable.

    The funds have been allocated to 8,809 PHCs nationwide, ensuring that at least one center exists in every political ward within each Local Government Area (LGA).

    The disbursement was carried out through key health agencies, including the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), the National Emergency Medical Treatment Committee (NEMTC), and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC).

    During the same period, 1.96 million Nigerians were enrolled under the NHIA, broadening the scope of accessible health coverage.

    According to Mukhtar Muhammad, Secretary of the Ministerial Oversight Committee (MOC), the BHCPF aims to expand its coverage, doubling the number of PHCs in every ward by 2027.

    However, Muhammad emphasized that PHCs can only access these funds if they meet strict fund-tracking criteria and if the State governments contribute the required 25% counterpart funding.

    Read Also: UHC: FG disburses N25bto PHCs nationwide

    During a recent BHCPF media engagement in Abuja, Muhammad highlighted the significant challenges hindering the implementation of mandates despite the significant milestones it has been able to achieve since its inception.

    The BHCPF is designed to remove barriers to accessing primary healthcare, especially for those in remote areas.

    These centers, being the closest healthcare facilities to the people, are intended to provide quality care with trained health workers and necessary equipment.

    The fund is disbursed through four main gateways: the NHIA (48.75%), NPHCDA (45%), NEMTC (5%), and NCDC (1.25%).

    According to Muhammad, the necessity of the BHCPF becomes clear when considering Nigeria’s alarming health statistics. Despite representing only 2.4% of the world’s population, Nigeria accounts for 10% of global maternal deaths.

    He said the maternal mortality rate stands at 1,047 deaths per 100,000 live births, while approximately 262,000 newborns die at birth each year—the second highest rate globally, while infant mortality is currently at 69 per 1,000 live births, and for children under five, the rate is 128 per 1,000.

    He said: “The strategic funding is essential to address these critical issues at the basic healthcare level.

    “The initiative seeks to improve maternal and newborn care, to ensure that every LGA has at least one functional facility providing emergency obstetric and newborn services.

    “This joint effort between the Federal and State governments is crucial in reducing maternal mortality rates across the country”.

    Muhammad however acknowledged that though significant progress has been made since the BHCPF’s inception, it is still facing some challenges.

    He said that overcoming the persistent issues is vital to achieving the desired goals of quality, accessible, and affordable primary healthcare services.

    The most pressing challenges, according to him, include limited ownership of the BHCPF by state and local governments, and inadequate funding, “The reluctance of State governments to fully own and support the BHCPF is a significant barrier,” Muhammad stated.

    Other challenges include governance and coordination issues, weak health infrastructure, and a lack of human resources, in addition to limited public awareness and participation, coupled with inadequate oversight and monitoring mechanisms, he noted.

    In his presentation, Olusunkami Agboola, who represented NHIA said the national enrollment has gone up significantly rising by 11% under a year.

    According to him, from the low base of an estimated 16 million enrolment into various schemes across the country in quarter 4 of 2023, total national enrolment now stands at about 18.7 million.

    This translates to an increase of about 11% in less than one year, an indication that the ongoing efforts by NHIA and various State government institutions working in the health insurance space are yielding fruit.

    “This enrollment figure has also already surpassed the Presidential target for the year by 8% demonstrating its capability of meeting and exceeding the 2027 target. 

    “The Coordinating Minister for Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate had announced at the end of 2023 that an additional 750,000 Nigerians signed up for health insurance within the first 100 days of the Tinubu administration.  

    Since the beginning of 2023, the NHIA under its current management, has been working on various strategic measures to shore up the figures in pursuit of the administration’s target of universal coverage by 2030.

    Among several measures targeted at improving synergies with public and private sector partners and ultimately enrolment figures, NHIA initiated and is leading the ongoing review of capitation fees paid to healthcare providers.

    “The capitation fees are fixed payments to healthcare providers based on the estimated value of services to patients that constitute a key incentive for achieving improved quality of services and attracting enrollees.

    “Already a temporary rate has been agreed, pending the announcement of a revised rate,” he added.

    Ogbe Oritseweyimi, who represented the NPHCDA gateway said the agency is responsible for strengthening primary healthcare systems.

    He said: “It allocates funds to improve infrastructure at Primary Health Care (PHC) centers, provides essential drugs and vaccines, and supports training for healthcare workers.

    “This gateway also implements public health interventions such as immunization programs and maternal and child health services”

    According to Saidu Ahmed of the NEMTC gateway, the focus is on emergency care, establishing and managing emergency medical response systems, and funding critical cases that cannot afford treatment.

    “It supports the operational needs of emergency medical services nationwide, ensuring timely and effective response to urgent health crises,” he submitted.

    On his part, NCDC representative, John Oladejo said the NCDC Gateway enhances the country’s capacity to manage public health emergencies and disease outbreaks.

    “It conducts surveillance, provides funding for outbreak management, supports laboratory services, and implements public health campaigns to prevent disease spread.

    “This gateway’s inclusion is crucial for improving Nigeria’s response to health emergencies and disease outbreaks,” he said.

  • Savante Consulting sets new standards in regulation with ISO 9001:2015 certification

    Savante Consulting sets new standards in regulation with ISO 9001:2015 certification

    Savante Consulting Limited, a premier regulatory affairs and clinical research firm based in Lagos, has achieved ISO 9001:2015 certification.

     This certification marks a major milestone, underscoring the company’s dedication to excellence in delivering regulatory affairs services in Africa and to a global clientele.

    Savante Consulting recently completed audits by Bureau Veritas, a leading global certification body. These evaluated the company’s processes across crucial service areas such as product registration, pharmacovigilance, and clinical trials within the pharmaceutical and medical devices sectors. As a result, Savante has distinguished itself as the sole provider of these specialised services in Africa to attain certification.

    Managing Partner of Savante Consulting Limited, Mr. Sola Solarin, extended his gratitude to stakeholders for their support and high expectations.

    “The certification commits us to continuously check with you to be sure you are happy with your relationship with us and seek opportunities always to improve. Our promise to you is to live up to the demands of the ISO 9001:2015 standards at the minimum and look for opportunities to exceed them,” Solarin, stated.

    Read Also: My election will improve global health sector, says Solarin

    For more than 12 years, Savante Consulting has been a leading provider of expert regulatory affairs consultancy, bridging global clients with key regulatory bodies, including NAFDAC in Nigeria, Ghana FDA, SAHPRA in South Africa, and PPB in Kenya.

    The recent certification further cements the company’s position as an industry leader, affirming its commitment to upholding the highest standards of quality and service in its specialised field.

    Solarin, a Fellow, International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP), enthused that this achievement reflects Savante Consulting’s dedication to excellence and its pivotal role in facilitating compliance and regulatory interactions across the African continent.

  • Revitalising Nigeria’s healthcare

    Revitalising Nigeria’s healthcare

    Nigeria stands at a crossroads in its healthcare journey, facing a myriad of challenges that threaten the well-being of its citizens.

      Over the years, the nation’s healthcare has been hindered by inadequate infrastructure, insufficient funding, and a troubling exodus of skilled professionals.

      As the country grapples with these issues, the recent introduction of the “National Policy on Health Workforce Migration” signifies a pivotal moment in its reform efforts. This policy, along with complementary measures, aims to address critical workforce challenges and revitalise the sector, promising a new era of improved health outcomes and system efficiency.

    The disparity between healthcare facilities in urban and rural areas is one of the most glaring issues within country’s healthcare system. Cities like Lagos and Abuja benefit from relatively better healthcare infrastructure, while many rural regions remain underserved, grappling with inadequate services and poorly maintained facilities.

    Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs), designed to provide essential services at the grassroots, often operate with basic amenities lacking and are frequently underfunded. The World Health Organisation (WHO) reports that Nigeria’s healthcare facility density stands at about 0.4 per 1,000 people, far below global averages.This imbalance exacerbates health disparities, limiting access to quality care for rural populations.

    Compounding these infrastructure issues is the severe shortage of healthcare professionals. With approximately 55,000 doctors serving over 200 million people, Nigeria’s doctor-to-patient ratio falls significantly short of the WHO recommendation of one doctor per 600 people. This shortage is further aggravated by the migration of skilled professionals seeking better opportunities abroad.

    Over the past five years, about 16,000 doctors have left the country, leaving the sector critically understaffed. This brain drain not only undermines the quality of care but also strains the already overstretched resources.

    Funding remains another major obstacle.The government’s allocation for healthcare is markedly below the recommended 15 per cent of total expenditure, lingering between five and per cent. This financial shortfall results in a deficit of essential medical supplies, poor facility maintenance, and delays in salaries for healthcare workers. Corruption and mismanagement exacerbate these issues, diverting resources away from critical needs and contributing to systemic inefficiencies.  

    The impact is evident in Nigeria’s troubling health indicators, including high rates of infant and maternal mortality, with a maternal mortality ratio of 512 per 100,000 live births and a life expectancy of around 55—both figures falling short of global averages. The prevalence of diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS continues to challenge public health and overall quality of life.

    In response to these pressing challenges, Nigeria has introduced the “National Policy on Health Workforce Migration”, designed to address the critical issues facing the nation’s health human resources.

    Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Muhammad Pate, has articulated that this policy is more than a mere reaction to the exodus of healthcare professionals; it is a comprehensive strategy to manage, harness, and reverse this trend.  It aims to foster a thriving healthcare workforce that is well-supported, adequately rewarded, and effectively utilised.

    Central to the policy is the establishment of the Nigeria Human Health Resource Programme. This framework will conduct regular reviews of working conditions, particularly focusing on healthcare workers in rural and underserved areas. By enhancing working conditions and offering career development opportunities, the policy seeks to make the healthcare profession more attractive and reduce the impetus for migration. This approach aims to bolster workforce retention and ensure that healthcare professionals receive the recognition and rewards they deserve.

    Read Also: 2024 PSHAN annual gala, awards night to honour excellence in Nigerian Healthcare

    Another critical aspect of the policy is its emphasis on capacity building and continuous professional development. The policy outlines strategic partnerships and international training programmes designed to equip healthcare professionals with advanced skills and knowledge. By investing in human capital, the policy intends to enhance the competencies of workers and increase the sector’s appeal.

    It also recognises the growing importance of digital health infrastructure. It includes provisions for implementing Electronic Medical Records (EMR), telehealth services, and a comprehensive Health Workforce Registry. These technological advancements are expected to streamline healthcare delivery, promote equitable distribution of health workers, and ensure high-quality care for  Nigerians.

    Addressing the brain drain, the policy seeks to facilitate the return and reintegration of health professionals from abroad. Simplified registration processes and attractive incentives are proposed to encourage these professionals to return and contribute their expertise to healthcare. Furthermore, reciprocal agreements with other nations will ensure that the exchange of health workers benefits Nigeria while balancing the interests of both parties.

    Work-life balance and support for healthcare professionals are also prioritised in the policy. Provisions for routine health checks, mental well-being support, and reasonable working hours are designed to create a supportive work environment, reduce burnout, and enhance job satisfaction.

    The minister also stated an important aspect of the vision lies with the Nigeria Human Health Resource Programme, which he said establishes a framework for regular reviews of working conditions, ensuring that health workers, particularly in rural and underserved areas, receive the recognition and rewards they merit. He said it would create an environment that encourages professional development and stability, adding that the policy seeks to retain the best talent within the country.

    According to him, as the world becomes increasingly digital, incorporating cutting-edge health technologies for healthcare management is crucial. The policy’s emphasis on digital health infrastructure represents a major milestone towards a more efficient and data-driven healthcare system.

    Pate said these technological advancements will simplify healthcare delivery, promote fair distribution of health workers, and guarantee access to quality care for Nigerians. “Capacity building is a cornerstone of the policy, focusing on continuous professional development through strategic partnerships and international training to equip healthcare professionals with cutting-edge skills, demonstrating a commitment to retaining and empowering the workforce,” he said.

    Also, he said the policy will facilitate the return and reintegration of Nigerian health professionals from abroad by simplifying registration processes and offering attractive incentives, leveraging their expertise to fill gaps in the health sector and strengthening the healthcare system.

    “Also, the policy champions reciprocal agreements with other nations to ensure that the exchange of health workers benefits Nigeria. These bilateral and multilateral agreements are designed to protect national interests while respecting the rights and aspirations of our healthcare professionals. We call on recipient countries to implement a 1:1 match—training one worker to replace every publicly trained Nigerian worker they receive. Recognising the importance of work-life balance, the policy includes provisions for routine health checks, mental well-being support, and reasonable working hours, especially for younger doctors. These measures aim to create a supportive work environment, reducing burnout and enhancing job satisfaction.”

    In tandem with the workforce policy, President Bola Tinubu has signed an Executive Order aimed at revitalising the sector by boosting local production. This order eliminates tariffs, excise duties, and value-added tax (VAT) on imported pharmaceutical inputs, including Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) and excipients. It will also increase local production of healthcare products such as pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, devices like needles and syringes, biologicals, and medical textiles. By reducing production costs, the order seeks to make healthcare products more affordable and accessible.

    The Executive Order is designed to stimulate local manufacturing of pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, and medical devices. By creating a favourable environment for local manufacturers, the order aims to decrease dependence on imported products, create jobs, and drive economic growth within the healthcare sector. Market-shaping mechanisms such as framework contracts and volume guarantees, are introduced to support local manufacturers and ensure a stable market for domestically produced healthcare products.

    “The Order introduces zero tariffs, excise duties, and VAT on specified machinery, equipment, and raw materials, aiming to reduce production costs and enhance our local manufacturers’ competitiveness. It also establishes market-shaping mechanisms, such as framework contracts and volume guarantees, to support local manufacturers. The implication of this order is a pivot towards market-based incentives to encourage medical industrialisation, reduce the costs of medical products through import substitution over time, create and retain economic value, and enable job creation in the healthcare value chain,” Pate explained.

    Successful implementation of this Executive Order will require collaboration among various government ministries, including health, finance, and industry, trade, and investment. Agencies such as the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), and Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) will play crucial roles in ensuring effective execution.

    The introduction of the National Policy on Health Workforce Migration and Executive Order marks a transformative moment for the healthcare sector. These initiatives, which address workforce migration, invest in technology, reduce production costs, and improve professional well-being, have the potential to significantly enhance the quality and accessibility of healthcare in Nigeria.

    However, the success of these reforms are hinged on the active participation and collaboration of stakeholders. Government agencies must ensure effective implementation, oversee resource management, and address any challenges. Healthcare professionals should engage with the policy, providing feedback to refine and improve its effectiveness.

    Private sector entities, including pharmaceutical companies and healthcare providers, must contribute to boosting local manufacturing and improving healthcare delivery. Civil society organisations can advocate for reforms, raise awareness, and ensure that underserved populations’ needs are addressed.

    As Nigeria embarks on this ambitious journey of healthcare reform, it is essential for all sectors to work  with dedication and innovation. By fostering a collaborative approach, Nigeria can overcome its challenges and build a system that reflects the nation’s potential and promise.

    The path forward requires a shared vision for a healthier future for Nigerians, driven by commitment, innovation, and collective effort.

  • WHO declares mpox a global public health emergency for second time in two years

    WHO declares mpox a global public health emergency for second time in two years

    The World Health Organisation on Wednesday declared mpox a global public health emergency for the second time in two years, following an outbreak of the viral infection in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) that has spread to neighbouring countries.

    An emergency committee met earlier on Wednesday to advise WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on whether the disease outbreak constitutes a “public health emergency of international concern,” or PHEIC.

    PHEIC status is WHO’s highest level of alert and aims to accelerate research, funding and international public health measures and co-operation to contain a disease.

    “It’s clear that a co-ordinated international response is essential to stop these outbreaks and save lives,” said Tedros.

    Mpox can spread through close contact. Usually mild, it is fatal in rare cases. It causes flu-like symptoms and pus-filled lesions on the body.

    Read Also: NCDC, partners launch research project against Mpox response

    The outbreak in DRC began with the spread of an endemic strain, known as clade I. But a new variant, clade Ib, appears to spread more easily through routine close contact, including sexual contact. It has spread from DRC to neighbouring countries, including Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda, triggering the action from the WHO.

    “The detection and rapid spread of a new clade of mpox in eastern DRC, its detection in neighbouring countries that had not previously reported mpox, and the potential for further spread within Africa and beyond is very worrying,” Tedros added.

    Tedros said on Wednesday that WHO had released $1.5m (R27m) in contingency funds and plans to release more in the coming days. WHO’s response plan would require an initial $15m (R270.4m), and the agency plans to appeal to donors for funding.

    Earlier this week, Africa’s top public health body declared an mpox emergency for the continent after warning that the viral infection was spreading at an alarming rate, with more than 17,000 suspected cases and more than 500 deaths this year, mainly among children in DRC.

    Prof Dimie Ogoina, chair of WHO’s mpox emergency committee, said all members unanimously agreed that the current upsurge of cases is an “extraordinary event,” with a record number of cases in DRC.

    Vaccines and behaviour change helped stop the spread when a different strain of mpox spread globally, primarily among men who have sex with men, and WHO declared an emergency in 2022.

    In DRC, the transmission routes need further study, WHO said. No vaccines are yet available, though efforts are under way to change that and work out who best to target. The agency also appealed to countries with stockpiles to donate shots.

  • Brain drain: Diaspora doctors sign MoU with National Hospital 

    Brain drain: Diaspora doctors sign MoU with National Hospital 

    …seek to curb Japa syndrome 

    Concern Medics Foundation (CMF), a group of Nigerian doctors in the Diaspora, has signed a memorandum of understanding with the National Hospital for Women and Children in Abuja. 

    The agreement was formalized on Tuesday in Abuja by the hospital’s Chief Medical Director, Professor Raji Mahmoud, and the chairperson of CMF, Dr. Sadiya Gumi.

    The agreement aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision, as outlined by the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, to ensure that healthcare professionals are well-supported, adequately compensated, and effectively utilized to meet the healthcare needs of Nigerians.

    The deal was sealed in order to reduce the menace of Japa syndrome among medical doctors in the country. 

    Gumi in a statement made available to journalists on Thursday, August 15, noted that the parties involved in the partnership desires to collaborate to address the issue of medical brain drain by facilitating the involvement of Nigerian doctors in the diaspora, who will participate in a two-year rotation program at National Hospital Abuja.

    Gumi added that CMF and the hospital acknowledged the potential to turn brain drain to brain gain involving Nigerian doctors in diaspora. 

    She added that 24 doctors from all over the world that have signed up for this pilot scheme. 

    Gumi, while speaking further, said that some of the diasporan doctors are specialist in surgery, psychiatry intensive care , anaesthetist, paediatrics, adult medicine and general practice etc. 

    She said: “Nigerian doctors migrate to the United Kingdom (UK) and other Western nations to practice their skill which is a Brain Drain to Nigeria and its economy. 

    “The Parties acknowledge the potential to turn Brain Drain to Brain Gain involving Nigerian doctors in diaspora. The Parties desires to collaborate to address the issue of medical brain drain by facilitating the involvement of Nigerian doctors in the diaspora, who will participate in a two-year rotation program at National Hospital Abuja.

    Read Also: Health minister: 68% of Nigerian doctors sought to work in UK

    “Provide onsite accommodation for visiting diasporan doctors. Ensure the accommodation is renovated, furnished, and secure to create a conducive environment for the doctors. 

    “Assist with necessary logistics support to facilitate the smooth integration of the visiting doctors into the hospital’s operations. Organized and coordinates the participation of Nigerian Doctors in the diaspora to come on rotation every month. Continuous training and mentoring of resident doctors. 

    “Ensure that the doctors are registered and meet all necessary professional and regulatory requirements. Provide necessary logistical arrangements for the visiting doctors, including travel, food and transportation as needed. b. Collaborate with the National Hospital to ensure the sustainability and potential expansion of the program to other states in Nigeria.

    “Both parties agree to maintain the confidentiality of any proprietary or sensitive information shared during this collaboration. Both parties will jointly monitor and evaluate the progress and impact of the program, making adjustments as necessary to achieve the desired outcomes. 

    “Both parties agree to explore and secure funding and resources necessary to support the program’s implementation and sustainability. This MOU may be terminated by either party with a 60-day written notice. Upon termination, both party will work together to ensure a smooth transition and minimal disruption to the program”.  

    “We currently have 24 doctors from all over the world that have signed up for this pilot scheme. Some of the diasporan doctors are specialist in Surgery, psychiatry intensive care , anaesthetist , paediatrics, adult medicine and general practice etc. We hope to roll this out in all the 36 states not just Abuja. We continue to seek support by the government as mentioned by minister of health in latest article. It is due to start in September but due to logistic issues we will be starting November 2024.”

  • Experts urge Nigerians to pledge cornea donations to combat blindness

    Experts urge Nigerians to pledge cornea donations to combat blindness

    In an effort to tackle the growing challenge of blindness in Nigeria, health experts are calling on Nigerians to pledge to donate their corneas, highlighting the urgent need to address the acute shortage of corneas in the country. 

    The appeal was made during a symposium at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) Ikeja, Lagos, in commemoration of the 2024 World Organ Donation Day.

    Ophthalmologists, specializing in the treatment and diagnosis of eye diseases, highlighted the critical role that cornea donation can play in reducing blindness caused by damaged corneas. 

    The symposium, organised by the Eye Bank for Restoring Sight, Nigeria, brought together leading voices in eye care to discuss the importance of organ donation, particularly cornea donation.

    The cornea, the transparent front part of the eye, is essential for vision.

    Damage to the cornea, often due to infections or trauma, can lead to severe visual impairment or blindness.

    Unfortunately, Nigeria faces a significant shortage of donor corneas, limiting the availability of sight-restoring surgeries.

    Chairman of the Eye Bank for Restoring Sight, Dr. Festus Odunayo Oshoba emphasized the Eye Bank’s pivotal role in providing and distributing donor corneas for transplantation. 

    Since its establishment in 2004 as a collaborative effort between the Ophthalmological Society of Nigeria (OSN) and the Federal Nigeria Society for the Blind (FNSB), the Eye Bank has been instrumental in restoring sight to many Nigerians suffering from corneal blindness.

    Operating under the Corneal Grafting Act of 1973 and the National Health Act of 2014, the Eye Bank’s mission is clear: to ensure that every Nigerian with corneal blindness has the opportunity to regain their sight through cornea grafting. 

    Dr. Oshoba urged Nigerians to pledge their corneas for donation after death, stressing that organ donation is a scientifically guided process aimed solely at restoring sight, not for any ritualistic purposes.

    Dr. Oshoba also highlighted the need for increased public awareness and participation in cornea donation. He called on both governmental and non-governmental organizations to collaborate in promoting this cause, stating, “Our mission is to ensure that every Nigerian with corneal blindness can regain their sight through cornea grafting.”

    Speaking on the symposium’s theme “Giving a gift that goes on living,” the keynote speaker, Dr. Bade Ogundipe explained that despite over 200 cornea transplants being performed in Nigeria, less than 10 corneas have been harvested since the Eye Bank’s inception. 

    He attributed this to a lack of awareness and the cultural reluctance surrounding organ donation.

    “Many cornea problems in Nigeria stem from infections and untreated trauma,” Dr. Ogundipe explained. 

    “Unfortunately, people often resort to unorthodox treatments like applying urine, breast milk, or kerosene, which exacerbates the condition. This is why it’s crucial for health practitioners to educate the public on the importance of cornea care and donation.”

    Dr. Ogundipe also pointed out the need for more training for eye bank technicians who are responsible for harvesting, processing, and storing corneas, as well as the need for better equipment to ensure the safety and effectiveness of cornea transplants.

    Expanding the discussion beyond corneas, Prof. Jacob Awobusuyi addressed the broader impact of organ donation. 

    Speaking on this year’s theme, “Be the Reason for Someone’s Smile Today,” he emphasized the life-saving potential of organ donation. 

    He presented staggering statistics on the global burden of organ failure, noting that conditions like kidney failure, heart failure, chronic liver disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) affect millions of people worldwide.

    Organ transplantation, including corneas, offers these individuals a second chance at life. Prof. Awobusuyi explained that a single deceased donor could save or improve the lives of up to eight people by donating organs such as kidneys, liver, lungs, heart, pancreas, intestines, and corneas.

    Addressing the ethical, religious, and legal considerations surrounding organ donation, Prof. Awobusuyi reassured attendees that major religions in Nigeria—Christianity, Islam, and traditional beliefs—support organ donation as an act of love, charity, and human solidarity. 

    He also emphasized that Nigeria’s legal framework supports organ donation when conducted ethically and without financial gain, preventing the illegal organ trade.

    Prof. Awobusuyi concluded with a powerful message: “Even in death, we can give the gift of life. A single donor’s organs can save multiple lives, and efforts are underway to establish a deceased donor transplantation program in Nigeria. The body, as the final note stated, can indeed be a hero.”

    As part of the advocacy campaign to encourage cornea donation, a neon green wristband was launched and distributed to individuals who pledged their corneas. 

    This wristband symbolizes their commitment to the cause and aims to inspire others to follow suit.

    The symposium also featured moving testimonies from individuals who have benefited from cornea transplants, highlighting the life-changing impact of organ donation. These stories served as a poignant reminder of the difference that organ donors can make in the lives of others.

    The 2024 World Organ Donation Day event at the LASUTH was not just a commemoration but a call to action.

    Health experts, religious leaders, and advocates all came together with a unified message: Nigerians have the power to combat blindness and save lives through organ donation. 

    By pledging to donate their corneas and other organs, Nigerians can ensure that their legacy lives on, bringing sight and life to those in need.

  • Health minister: 68% of Nigerian doctors sought to work in UK

    Health minister: 68% of Nigerian doctors sought to work in UK

    A National Policy on Health Workforce Migration Policy has been unveiled by the Federal Government to curb “japa’’ syndrome by trained Nigerian medical workers.

    It explained that with the policy, Nigerian would  retain its  health workforce and encourage those who migrated to  return.

    Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Ali Pate, said the United Kingdom(UK) remained the biggest beneficiary of the ‘japa’’  syndrome by Nigerian health professionals.

    He revealed that  the   Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN)  records  two years ago showed that over 3,000 medical doctors requested letters of good standing, with 68 per cent intending to migrate to the UK.

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    Pate spoke on a television  magazine programme on Tuesday. He added that the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) reported a significant jump in nurses seeking verification to migrate, with 52 percent  choosing the UK and  36 percent  for the US.  

    Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN) recorded  89 percent  increase between 2021 and 2022.

    Pharmacists, according to the minister , are also left  in droves, with Canada being the top destination of  72 percent  of those who migrated in 2022.

    Optometrists and physiotherapists are also fleeing the country.

    The UK also was recorded by the Medical Rehabilitation Therapists Board of Nigeria (MRTBN) as    the preferred destination for 91 percent  of physiotherapists who left Nigeria in 2022.

    Pate explained that the  Health Workforce Migration Policy took cognisance of the factors driving the  ‘’japa’’ syndrome, including  a combination of economic, professional, and environmental factors.

    His words: “The Health Workforce Policy on Migration is a managed migration policy, a valuable resource that has gone through several iterations of consultations with key actors, professional bodies, health workers from across the country, and other ministries.

    “While primarily focused on health, the policy is also connected to the broader effort by the Nigerian government to address migration issues and harness the country’s potential, especially considering its large youth population.

    “Many of these youths are in school, learning, and have high aspirations. Nigeria is seen as a country of the future, and the challenge lies in harnessing this demographic potential.

    “Over the last five years, almost 17,000 health workers have been trained, but more than half of them have left the country. Younger doctors, in particular, tend to leave after their training due to demand elsewhere, better training opportunities, and the challenges they face within Nigeria.

    “The policy aims to address these issues by retaining talent and providing the necessary services to Nigerians, while also facilitating the return of those who have left.

    “Ultimately, the goal is to create a health system that reduces the push factors driving healthcare workers to leave, despite the pull from more advanced countries.

    “The strain of health workers migration is continuous; it’s not going to stop tomorrow.

     “The UK will continue to need Nigerian doctors. Does the UK, for instance, want to consider expanding pre-service education? Can we have corridors that allow us to have a compact that ‘you’ll take so but you will also help us train more so you will replace them’? That is in the realm of health diplomacy and ethical replacement.

    “Nigerians are very vibrant, very entrepreneurial, and very capable wherever they are. If Nigerians hold back from the UK, for instance, the NHS will struggle to provide the services that many Nigerians are going there to do.

    “We’re not stopping anyone from leaving. We’re accepting that migration is here to stay—people will leave, some will come back, and some will migrate here from elsewhere.”

    Among other steps to boost the retention   health workforce are the  disbursement over N25 billion  from the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) for the  revitalisation of  over 8,000 primary healthcare centres (PHCs) in the country.

    There will also be the  establishment of a world-class cancer and oncology centres in each of the six geo-political zones of the country.  

  • 2024 PSHAN annual gala, awards night to honour excellence in Nigerian Healthcare

    2024 PSHAN annual gala, awards night to honour excellence in Nigerian Healthcare

    Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria (PSHAN) has announced the call for nominations in anticipation of the 2024 PSHAN Annual Gala & Awards Night.

    This prestigious event, slated for Friday, October 25, 2024, will honour and celebrate individuals and organisations who have made unparalleled contributions to advancing healthcare in Nigeria.

    Nominations are open across five categories: Federal, State, and Local Government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies; Media; International Agencies, Local NGOs, and Healthcare Institutions; Individuals; and The Organized Private Sector.

    PSHAN invites the public to recognise remarkable individuals and organisations who have significantly impacted the healthcare landscape by submitting their nominations for the 2024 PSHAN Annual Gala & Awards Night.

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    Highlighting the importance of the awards, the MD/CEO of PSHAN, Dr. Tinuola Akinbolagbe, said: “These awards recognise the remarkable individuals and organizations that are revolutionizing Nigeria’s healthcare landscape through their dedication, innovation, and leadership. By celebrating their achievements and impact, we hope to inspire a new generation of healthcare leaders, innovators, and change-makers to join us in building a healthier, more equitable future for every Nigerian, where access to quality healthcare is a reality for all.”

    To nominate, visit the PSHAN nominations portal using clicking the “Nominate Now” button, and complete the nomination form. To be eligible, nominees must operate or reside in Nigeria or effect positive change in the country. Multiple nominations across different award categories are allowed.

    The PSHAN Annual Gala & Awards Night in its second year running, promises to be an evening of celebration and inspiration, bringing together leaders, medical professionals, and changemakers committed to improving healthcare in Nigeria.

  • AHF supports 2 ​million persons with innovative HIV/AIDS services

    AHF supports 2 ​million persons with innovative HIV/AIDS services

    A non-governmental organisation (NGO), AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), Wednesday, says they have provided in-care HIV/AIDS services support to over 2 million persons living with the virus globally.

    Dr Echey Ijezie, Nigeria’s Country Director, made this known at an event in Abuja to mark the milestone recorded in 47 countries since its over 20 years of operation.

    “We are immensely proud to reach this historic milestone when the global programs launched 20 years ago in South Africa and Uganda with 100 patients in each.

    “We never imagined we would be serving 2 million lives under our care around the world.

    “At the time we started, it cost $5,000 per patient annually for ARVs. Today, more than half of AHF’s 2 million lives receiving care are in Africa.

    ” The combination of medicine and advocacy implementing prevention, care, and treatment programs and the support of government and other international donors have allowed us to reach this momentous achievement collectively.

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    “In Nigeria, we started with a zero patient base in 2011, but today, we have 29, 000 in care under the Nigeria program, many of them in very remote locations in Abuja, Anambra, Akwa Ibom, Benue, Cross river, Kogi and Nasarawa states,” he said.

    He added that AHF continues to leverage innovative healthcare delivery models to expand its reach and impact, especially in communities by providing comprehensive medical care, treatment, testing, prevention, and support services.

    Ijezie reiterated the commitment of AHF to advocating for access to HIV treatment and care for everyone who needs it by supporting the government in HIV/AIDS intervention and response.

    Dr Chukwuma Anyaike, Director Public Health Department, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, while commending AHF, reiterated government commitment towards improving health outcomes and unlocking the health sector value chain.

    “We are excited to be working with AHF, one thing stands out for their robustness in getting to the hard to reach areas to support those living with the virus.

    “And their intervention has brought succor and hope for not just the people living with the virus, but other people as well,” he said.

    Abdulkadir Ibrahim, National Coordinator, Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria (NEPWHAN), said the over 2 million persons in care treatment shows AHF’s commitment in ending the virus globally.

    “Putting 2 million lives on treatment shows that  we are moving towards ending AIDS in Nigeria and globally.

    “Scientifically we know that treatment is working and it serves as a means of prevention.

    “By this it shows that AIDS is no longer a public threat as people are living and accessing treatment and living a healthy life.”

    Oluwafunke Odunkade, Technical Officer, HIV, Viral Hepatitis and STI, WHO-Nigeria, stressed the need to continue to ensure that all the people brought into the care have optimum access to healthcare services.

    “While we celebrate, we must be reminded that this is not the end. We still have the last hurdle to cross, and we can only achieve that by collaboratively rethinking our strategies.

    ” We are ensuring that HIV is fully mainstream into the health systems and not standing alone and also ensuring that all the people that we brought into care have the optimum level of care.

    “It is not just for us to have the numbers, but it’s important that they have optimum care,” she said.