By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, has urged private investors to increase funding for Nigeria’s healthcare system. He made the appeal while highlighting the Federal Government’s efforts to strengthen primary healthcare and expand health insurance coverage. Pate also commended Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo for partnering with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to improve healthcare delivery.
FG Strengthens Primary Healthcare
Pate reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to improving primary healthcare through the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF).
The initiative supports efforts to improve access to essential health services across Nigeria. It also involves collaboration among federal, state and local governments.
Furthermore, the minister praised Governor Monday Okpebholo for supporting the administration’s healthcare reforms in Edo State.
He acknowledged the governor’s partnership with President Tinubu in revitalising primary healthcare facilities and expanding health insurance coverage.
Pate Calls for More Private Investment
However, Pate stressed that government funding alone cannot meet Nigeria’s growing healthcare needs.
He therefore urged private investors to play a greater role in developing the country’s healthcare sector.
According to the minister, stronger private-sector participation would help address funding gaps and improve healthcare delivery.
Private investment could also support the development of medical facilities, improve access to essential services and strengthen the healthcare system.
Public-Private Partnerships Key to Healthcare Development
Meanwhile, collaboration between government institutions and private investors remains important to expanding healthcare access.
Such partnerships can help mobilise additional resources, improve service delivery and support the sustainability of healthcare programmes.
Consequently, increased private-sector investment could complement government initiatives aimed at strengthening primary healthcare and expanding health insurance coverage nationwide.
Nigeria’s healthcare system needs sustained investment and cooperation among all stakeholders to meet the population’s growing demands.
