The Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) has advised governments across the country to implement sustainable funding measures for the health sector to put an end to frequent industrial action in the industry. The call was made during a workshop on “Innovative and Alternative Funding of the Health Sector” held in Abuja.
Eze Onyekpere, CSJ’s Lead Director, led the discussion, highlighting the need to address critical funding and human resource issues in Nigeria’s health sector. The workshop, supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), aimed to promote transparency, accountability, and respect for existing laws and policies in the public health sector expenditure.
CSJ proposed a comprehensive set of recommendations to revolutionize the healthcare landscape, ensuring better access and quality healthcare for all Nigerians. Among the proposals were the full implementation of the National Health Insurance Authority Act and better utilization and transparency in the management of the Basic Health Care Provision Fund.
The workshop participants also called for increased resources to social health insurance to cover vulnerable populations and emphasized the urgency of addressing the brain drain phenomenon in the sector.
Calls were also made for the establishment of a Health Development Bank of Nigeria to focus on health infrastructure and equipment funding. The workshop emphasized the importance of collaboration between various stakeholders, including civil society, donors, and the National Council on Health, to improve strategic targets in the health sector.
To enhance transparency and accountability, the workshop participants suggested that the Minister of Health should present an annual report on the state of health to the President and National Assembly. They also stressed the need for regular publications and public access to information on the management of the BHCPF.
The outcome of the workshop is expected to influence policy decisions and pave the way for a more robust and sustainable healthcare system in Nigeria, with a focus on innovative funding solutions, accountability measures, and strategic investments in health infrastructure and human resources to ensure the right to health for all citizens.
