Abuja:Civil society organizations, the media, and other stakeholders have urged the adoption of health-focused manifestoes and the monitoring of political commitments ahead of the 2027 elections. This call was made during the Nigeria Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Forum, themed ‘Leveraging 2027 Election to Advance Nigeria’s UHC Quest.’
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, Chief Moji Makanjuola, Chair of the Nigeria UHC Forum, emphasized the importance of sustained engagement with political actors. She noted that the Citizens-Led Health Agenda had influenced the ruling party’s manifesto during the 2023 elections. The forum plans to build on this experience by crafting a comprehensive health agenda for political actors and engaging with them before and after the 2027 elections.
Makanjuola stressed the need for political candidates to understand health operations beyond infrastructure. She highlighted the importance of adequate human resources, effective primary healthcare, and health systems tailored to Nigeria’s needs. She also encouraged stakeholders to advocate for health equity and reduced out-of-pocket spending, urging the media to scrutinize health budgets and track the usage of allocated funds.
Dr. Gafar Alawode, CEO of DGI Consult and Co-convener of the Nigeria UHC Forum, pointed out that lessons from states with successful health financing and insurance models should guide the agenda for political actors. He cited Delta State as an example, which has expanded health insurance coverage to about 50% of its population, focusing on the poor and vulnerable. Alawode emphasized that effective budget execution is crucial, with some states achieving 80% to 90% execution of health budgets.
Prof. Aliko Ahmed from Africa CDC highlighted the role of political leadership in achieving UHC. He stated that evidence from 40 countries showed that major advances in universal coverage often stem from political responses to crises. Ahmed suggested that Nigeria’s current fiscal and health challenges could prompt stronger political commitments to UHC.
Dr. Fatima Zanna of GIZ emphasized that elections provide an opportunity for political parties to set health priorities. She advocated for building resilient health systems capable of addressing emerging threats such as outbreaks and climate change. Achieving UHC, she said, requires a Nigeria-owned and led process involving various sectors and partners.
Dr. Muhammed Lecky, Chair of the Health Sector Reform Coalition, urged political parties to prioritize health as an election issue and implement existing health-sector commitments. He called for the enforcement of the National Health Insurance Authority Act to ensure progress towards universal coverage.
Joseph Kadiri, President of the Association of Nigeria Health Journalists, pledged the media’s continued support through sustained reporting and accountability. He emphasized the role of health journalists in promoting UHC and ensuring that health issues remain a public focus.