In a recent announcement at the National Healthy Ageing Summit, the Special Adviser to the President on Health, Salma Anas-Ibrahim, unveiled an ambitious plan by the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The government, led by President Bola Tinubu, is taking a significant stride towards providing comprehensive health coverage for more than 50 million Nigerians, particularly focusing on the vulnerable and elderly population, by the year 2027.
Emphasizing the significance of this commitment, Anas-Ibrahim highlighted that the President’s dedication to this endeavor reflects a new era of hope and progress for Nigeria’s healthcare sector. She assured that the government is resolutely committed to ensuring that no one is left behind in its pursuit of universal health coverage. The plan encompasses a broad demographic, encompassing elderly individuals and others in need, and seeks to extend quality healthcare services across the nation.
Dr Emem Omokaro, the Director General of the National Senior Citizens Centre, underscored the imperative of prioritizing the healthcare of senior citizens in Nigeria. Citing data from the Nigeria Living Standard Survey 2019, she revealed that there are currently 14.8 million older individuals in the country, with an anticipated growth rate of 2.8 percent. This figure is projected to rise to 29.8 million by 2050, underscoring the importance of addressing the healthcare needs of this segment of the population.
Dr Walter Mulombo, the World Health Organisation Country Representative, expressed optimism about the feasibility of the government’s goal to “leave no one behind.” He stressed that the collaboration and determination of all stakeholders are pivotal in achieving this vision.
This momentous initiative is not only professionally commendable but also an exciting development for Nigeria’s healthcare landscape. It holds the potential to significantly enhance the well-being of the elderly and vulnerable citizens, marking a transformative step towards a healthier future for the nation.
