Prioritizing Healthcare: Gov Oyebanji advocates for robust health systems in Ekiti State

Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State, alongside Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, has underscored the crucial need to shape the future of healthcare outcomes in Nigeria. This call was made during the 64th National Council on Health, with the theme “Building Resilient and Inclusive Healthcare Systems for a Healthy Nigeria.”

In his opening remarks in Ado-Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji emphasized his administration’s commitment to enhancing the health sector through digital solutions. The governor highlighted plans to leverage technology to strengthen health information systems and streamline processes, aiming for improved healthcare indices.

Governor Oyebanji affirmed his administration’s holistic approach to health systems development, particularly focusing on bolstering the primary healthcare system to promote universal health coverage. Noteworthy investments have been made in infrastructure upgrades, improved welfare for health workers, and ensuring the availability of quality drugs.

“In Ekiti, everyone can access comprehensive primary care interventions, including family planning, ante-natal care, delivery, post-natal care, under-5 illnesses, and malaria treatment,” the governor asserted.

Prof. Muhammad Pate, the Minister of Health, highlighted the National Council on Health as a crucial platform for addressing national health issues. The chosen theme aimed to encourage stakeholders to assess progress and work towards a healthcare system where everyone has access without financial hardship. Prof. Pate stressed the importance of government transparency, accountability, and responsiveness to citizens’ healthcare needs, emphasizing the establishment of quality standards and an anti-corruption regulatory framework.

In his keynote address, World Bank Country Director Chubam Chundri urged the Federal Government to prioritize key pillars of health systems, especially primary healthcare, by allocating increased resources. Chundri recommended a shift towards promoting the health and well-being of Nigerians, addressing the country’s low investment in health. He advocated for raising more revenue, including through increased excise taxes, to adequately fund the health sector.

The meeting brought together health workers, policymakers, and stakeholders from across the nation, including representatives from UNICEF, WHO, USAID, and other development agencies. The collective aim was to strategize and collaborate on achieving a robust and inclusive healthcare system for a healthier Nigeria.