The Coordinating Minister for Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, emphasized that a fundamental aspect of the Renewed Hope Agenda for the health sector is the commitment to saving lives and alleviating both physical and financial burdens through accessible and affordable quality healthcare for Nigerians.

During a press briefing in Bauchi State at the conclusion of the 2024 Ministerial Leadership On Performance Management Systems (PMS) event organized by the Ministry, Prof. Pate highlighted that the current administration has undertaken significant initiatives since taking office last year. These initiatives include the expansion and enhancement of Teaching Hospitals across the country's geopolitical zones and the provision of essential medical equipment aimed at ensuring health equity for all Nigerians, irrespective of their financial status or background.

He noted that these life-saving initiatives and various performance metrics are systematically integrated and actively pursued under the Health Sector Strategic Blueprint established by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.

Continuing on this path, the Coordinating Minister pointed out that in Bauchi State, residents are beginning to experience the positive effects of the President's efforts. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expanded the Teaching Hospitals and allocated a new site for the Tafawa Balewa Teaching Hospital, along with the construction of a newly rated world-class diagnostic center at the existing location.

”The VVF centre in Ningi has a program for women who are affected by obstetric fistula, and is being strengthened to serve women from the North – Eastern part of the country from all over Nigeria who are coming here to get served. In Misau, a new Federal Medical Centre provided; and in Azare, an upgraded Teaching Hospital serving not only Bauchi State but the entirety of the North- East Geopolitical zone. That is, delivering the promise of this President to improve the health of Nigerians.

Our Ministry has been diligently working on this initiative, as well as in various regions across the country. We are pleased to see the positive outcomes that are beginning to emerge. This marks just the initial year of our efforts, with more advancements anticipated in the transformation of the health sector. We are grateful for Mr. President’s leadership and his emphasis on health as a crucial component of his administration, the Coordinating Minister stated.


2024 Ministerial Leadership On Performance Management Systems ( PMS) showing the Honourable Coordinating Minister for Health & Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate (Middle); To his Right: Honourable Minister of State, Dr. Tunji Alausa; To his Left: Daju Kachollom mni; Permanent Secretary; surrounded by Directors of The Ministry & Chief Medical Directors of Teaching Hospitals.
Regarding the affordability of healthcare, Prof. Pate underscored the significance of collaboration and complementary actions among sub-national and local governments in the health sector. These efforts are essential for enhancing and broadening access to primary healthcare and health insurance, making it more affordable for Nigerians.

He noted, "Through health insurance, we have already enabled over 2.4 million Nigerians to access affordable care, particularly among vulnerable populations. Our goal is to expand health insurance and human resources through training and employment opportunities."

The Coordinating Minister further elaborated that unlocking the value chain is a key aspect of the Health Sector Strategic Blueprint initiative. This initiative aims to focus on the production of essential items, including commodities, bed nets, test kits, and other components of the healthcare value chain. We are committed to achieving this goal, as it will generate employment for our youth and provide necessary services and products to enhance the health of Nigerians.

It is important to note that the 2024 Ministerial Leadership on Performance Management Systems (PMS) was organized by the Ministry as a three-day event from October 21 to 23. This event brought together management staff, Chief Medical Directors of primary, secondary, and tertiary health institutions nationwide, as well as CEOs of various agencies.

Highlighting its significance, Prof. Pate remarked, "We have engaged in discussions on how to strengthen leadership within the sector, ensure accountability for performance, and enhance the quality of healthcare for all Nigerians. This is of utmost importance."