The Nigerian Federal Government has declared a state of emergency in the nation’s health sector, citing the urgent need for intervention.
The announcement was made during the 64th National Council on Health in Ekiti State, where stakeholders discussed key issues in the sector.
Dr. Muhammed Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister for Health and Social Welfare, highlighted the dire state of health facilities, emphasizing the necessity for immediate action.
Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, expressed excitement at hosting the event, noting the state’s significant achievements in the health sector.
The House of Representatives had previously called for a state of emergency and increased budget allocation, citing deteriorating healthcare facilities and a rise in death tolls.
The call came after a motion by Lagos lawmaker Fayinka Oluwatoyin (APC) during a plenary session in Abuja. In the motion, titled “Need for the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency to collaborate with relevant health agencies in states and Local Governments to ensure the functionality of Primary Healthcare Centres,” the lawmaker pointed to the fast deterioration of Nigeria’s health facilities due to shortages in personnel, medical equipment, drugs, and qualified personnel, resulting in an alarming increase in death tolls in the country’s health facilities.
