Abuja: Nigeria is embarking on a health sector reform that experts believe could redefine the nation’s journey toward self-reliance in healthcare and broader development. The Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp) is leading the transformative effort, anchored by the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSRII).
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Dr. Muntaqa Umar-Sadiq, National Coordinator of the SWAp Coordination Office, revealed in an interview that the reform aims to establish a more integrated and efficient health system. The goal is to sustain and strengthen Nigeria’s national response to HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria.
Umar-Sadiq emphasized the deep commitment of federal, state, and community stakeholders, alongside development partners. He noted that a new chapter has been reignited in building an efficient, integrated health system capable of sustaining the fight against these diseases. The effort is set apart by its foundation within the broader NHSRII framework.
The SWAp framework prioritizes resource-efficient integration driven by demand, data intelligence for informed decision-making, and a unified national approach to reduce fragmentation and foster collaboration. In response to changing global funding landscapes, Nigeria has organized a Technical Working Group on AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria (ATM-TWG) to identify funding gaps.
Umar-Sadiq stated that key organizations, including NACA, NASCP, NTBLCP, NMEP, and agencies such as NPHCDA, NHIA, and the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, collaborated to produce a cost analysis that informed a ?200 billion domestic investment. A transition strategy is underway to address systemic gaps, strengthen program arrangements, and deepen stakeholder engagement.
The initiative aims to maximize population-level impact and optimize funding efficiency. SWAp provides the necessary environment for accelerated institutionalization and targeted policy reforms. On August 11-12, health sector stakeholders gathered in Abuja for a workshop to co-create solutions capable of unlocking system efficiencies, identifying numerous integration opportunities to be implemented over the next three years.
Umar-Sadiq described the journey as blending passion and faith, reflecting the unwavering commitment of leadership and partners at every level.