Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, has emphasized that Universal Health Coverage (UHC) remains a central priority for the Bola Tinubu-led administration.
His remarks were made during the Federal Ministry of Health and Welfare’s 2024 Ministerial Leadership Retreat on Performance Management System held in Bauchi.
In his address, Pate highlighted the administration’s commitment to ensuring that every Nigerian, irrespective of their geographical location or economic status, has access to quality healthcare services.
“Achieving Universal Health Coverage is central to the Tinubu administration’s vision. We are working diligently to enhance healthcare services and provide equitable access for all Nigerians,” he stated.
Pate underscored the importance of collaboration with key stakeholders, including state governments and health professionals, in realizing this ambitious goal.
He pointed out recent advancements in Bauchi, including the establishment of a new permanent site for the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH) and the upgrading of diagnostic centers nationwide.
Additionally, a new Vesico-Vaginal Fistula (VVF) center has been inaugurated in Ningi, Bauchi, to cater to the needs of the North East and surrounding states.
“Improved healthcare services in Primary Health Care centers (PHCs) are also part of our ongoing efforts,” Pate added, emphasizing the government’s dedication to enhancing the overall healthcare framework in Nigeria.
Pate reiterated that achieving universal health coverage necessitates a collective effort.
“We understand that achieving universal health coverage requires a collective effort, and we are committed to working alongside all stakeholders to provide the best possible healthcare for Nigerians,” he affirmed.
In a related statement, Dr. Tunji Alausa, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, commended the success of the retreat, which facilitated meaningful discussions among the Ministry’s leadership.
He noted that the retreat led to the signing of performance contracts by Heads of Department and a renewed commitment to ensuring excellence and accountability in the health sector.
“The recommendations from the retreat are expected to bolster the sector’s ability to provide high-quality health services, in line with the administration’s health sector reform agenda,” Alausa concluded.