Nigeria’s Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziak Adekunle Salako, has called for collective action to tackle persistent disruptions in public health service delivery and ensure equitable access to healthcare for all Nigerians.
Speaking at a public health conference hosted by Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, Dr. Salako stressed the urgent need for innovation and resilience in addressing the challenges facing healthcare systems in sub-Saharan Africa.
Delivering his keynote address titled “Bridging Service Delivery Disruption in Public Health: A Critical Imperative for Our Future,” the minister warned that health service disruptions were not mere statistics but carried dire consequences for families and communities.
“While we refuse to be defined by these challenges, we must confront the issues at hand and commit to proactive solutions.
“This conference symbolizes our collective determination to learn from past lessons, innovate in adversity, and construct a public health system prepared for future crises,” he said.
Dr. Salako identified labour strikes, endemic diseases, and pandemic outbreaks as major threats to healthcare delivery, noting that they overstretch medical workers, disrupt essential services, and weaken societal structures.
He recalled how the COVID-19 pandemic exposed the fragility of Nigeria’s healthcare system, citing the infection of frontline workers, shortage of protective equipment, breakdown in the drug supply chain, and closure of Primary Health Centres as some of the low points.
Despite these setbacks, he said the pandemic also served as a catalyst for innovation, spurring reforms that could strengthen future health response systems.
Among the strategies proposed were the establishment of mobile diagnostic units at community levels, specialized disease control centres, and home delivery of medications for patients with chronic illnesses.
He further highlighted the Nigerian Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative, describing it as a long-term measure aimed at building sustainability and preventing future disruptions in healthcare delivery.
“The future of Nigeria’s public health is secure, but it requires a united effort. I call on all to join hands as we journey to save lives, reduce physical and financial pain, and promote health for all Nigerians,” he added.
The President and Vice Chancellor of Babcock University, Prof. Ademola Tayo, commended the minister for his support and urged participants to maximize the knowledge and insights gained from the conference to drive meaningful reforms in the sector.
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