The federal government is committed to enhancing healthcare service delivery through innovative solutions by engaging the nation’s private sector, the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain (PVAC) has said.
Given this, PVAC, in collaboration with the Healthcare Federation of Nigeria (HFN), has developed innovative initiatives aimed at unlocking the healthcare value chain by creating, among other initiatives, a pitching platform for local companies to showcase their potential to drive the unlocking of the nation’s healthcare value chain.
In a pitch event organized by HFN in collaboration with PVAC, 14 local companies were shortlisted and given the opportunity to present their innovative healthcare solutions to a panel of health sector experts.
The pitch event served as a dynamic platform for the selected companies to showcase cutting-edge innovations aimed at tackling critical challenges within Nigeria’s healthcare system.
It also offered HFN members the chance to secure funding and support from PVAC to further develop and scale their innovations.
In his keynote address, PVAC National Coordinator, Abdu Mukhtar, said the Federal government’s commitment to fostering an enabling environment for healthcare innovation, is unwavering.
At the event attended by other key stakeholders including Prof. Akin Abayomi, Lagos State Commissioner of Health; Okechukwu Enelamah, former Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment; and Ajibola Olomola, Partner and Head of Deal Advisory at KPMG West Africa, among others, each company had the opportunity to pitch their strategic ideas before a panel of healthcare professionals and investors.
In his keynote address, Mukhtar said, “This initiative is a key part of our broader vision to unlock Nigeria’s healthcare potential by empowering local companies to lead the way in innovation.
“Through collaborations like this, we are enabling the private sector to thrive and actively contribute to the country’s healthcare development. PVAC remains dedicated to supporting Nigerian healthcare businesses as they scale their impact.
“Our goal is to ensure that local innovative businesses are given the support they need to thrive. We believe in the potential of homegrown solutions and are committed to creating pathways for Nigerian healthcare entrepreneurs to scale their innovations.
“By prioritizing local businesses, we are not only driving economic growth but also building a stronger healthcare system.”
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In her opening remarks, HFN President Pamela Ajayi reiterated the federation’s commitment to empowering indigenous companies and fostering healthcare innovation.
She expressed optimism about the success of the partnership with PVAC, emphasising its potential to strengthen indigenous companies’ capacity to drive the unlocking of the nation’s healthcare value chain and align with the government’s goals of revitalizing the healthcare sector.
“We are proud to partner with PVAC to offer this platform, and we look forward to seeing the impact these innovations will have on Nigeria’s healthcare system.
“The event is part of HFN’s broader efforts to create pathways for private sector healthcare companies to gain visibility, access funding, and drive transformative change within the healthcare sector. In the coming months, HFN plans to organize more pitch events, virtual sessions, and collaborative opportunities,” she said.
On his part, Prof. Abayomi, while commending HFN and PVAC for their efforts in creating the platform, noted that the significance of such initiatives in addressing the issue of brain drain cannot be overemphasized.
“Initiatives like this are vital in not only driving innovation but also inspiring Nigerian professionals in the diaspora to return and contribute to healthcare development. By showcasing the incredible talent and innovation within the country, we are proving that Nigeria is fertile ground for impactful healthcare solutions.
“I commend the Healthcare Federation of Nigeria and PVAC for their foresight and collaboration. Platforms like this will undoubtedly play a significant role in reducing brain drain by offering opportunities for growth, innovation, and investment in our local healthcare sector.”
The former Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Enelamah, who was one of the judges, expressed his delight at the initiative brought forward by HFN and PVAC.
“This collaborative effort exemplifies the power of partnerships in healthcare, and I must commend the convening power of HFN in bringing together key stakeholders from both the public and private sectors for this initiative.”
The event showcased a wide range of groundbreaking ideas from the participating companies, covering key areas such as medical technology, diagnostics, telemedicine, and healthcare delivery systems.
The companies received valuable feedback from the expert panel, positioning them to further refine and implement their innovations.