‘Universal health coverage is a top priority for Tinubu’s administration’ – Pate

Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, has reaffirmed that Universal Health Coverage (UHC) is a top priority for President Bola Tinubu-led administration

Speaking during the Federal Ministry of Health and Welfare’s 2024 Ministerial Leadership Retreat on Performance Management System in Bauchi, Pate reiterated the administration’s commitment to ensuring that every Nigerian, regardless of their location or economic status, has access to quality healthcare.

“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,” Pate stated.

He further noted that the government is collaborating with stakeholders, including state governments and health professionals, to realize this goal.

He noted that recent progress in Bauchi includes 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 Vesico-Vaginal Fistula (VVF) center has been established in Ningi, Bauchi, to serve the North East and surrounding states.

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“Improved healthcare services in Primary Health Care centers (PHCs) are also part of our ongoing efforts,” Pate added.

He further mentioned that collaboration with various stakeholders—state governments, healthcare professionals, and development partners—will play a crucial role in enhancing healthcare delivery across the country.

“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 said.

Also speaking, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Tunji Alausa, commended on the success of the retreat, which facilitated meaningful discussions among the Ministry’s leadership.

“The retreat led to the signing of performance contracts by Heads of DAP and a renewed commitment to ensuring excellence and accountability in the health sector,” Alausa noted.

“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.”