Federal Ministry of Health said transparency, inclusiveness and inter-agency collaboration are fueling steady progress in the implementation of the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund, BHCPF.
The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Salako said this during the 11th meeting of the Ministerial Oversight Committee, MOC, on BHCPF yesterday in Abuja.
Salako said the committee reflects the ministry’s commitment to inclusive and accountable health governance.
“The MOC reflects the level of transparency and inclusiveness that is now driving the system.
“We are seeing more active engagement from sub-national governments, civil society organisations and the four implementing gateways; this synergy is critical to delivering better health outcomes,” he said.
The minister said the current process is fostering greater enrolment in health insurance, as stakeholders align their priorities and work in a more coordinated manner.
He also underscored the impact of the Presidential Executive Order on unlocking the healthcare value chain, stating that its implementation is beginning to show results across different components of the health system.
“This order has had a positive ripple effect on Nigeria’s pharmaceutical industry, ” he said.
He shared insights from a recent engagement with a leading drug manufacturer, commending the Senate for its role in fast-tracking regulatory reforms.
Salako, however, raised a critical question, “Are these benefits being transferred to the patients?”
He said the ultimate aim must be to lower drug prices at the pharmacy counter.
The minister urged stakeholders to ensure that cost savings are not absorbed solely by manufacturers, but passed on to those in need.
In addition, he called for greater flexibility in evaluating innovative proposals that may fall outside traditional funding parameters.
“The revitalisation of primary healthcare, a key agenda of President Bola Tinubu, is no longer just a plan, it is becoming visible and measurable,” he said.
BHCPF, which aims to improve access to quality and affordable healthcare through sustainable financing, continues to gain traction across states.
The MOC serves as a critical platform for monitoring, reviewing and aligning health sector progress toward Universal Health Coverage. (NAN)
