Yesterday, I had the honour of attending the Healthcare Federation of Nigeria Annual Conference 2026, held under the theme “Leveraging Private Sector Innovation to Achieve Quality Outcomes and Universal Health Coverage.”

This convening brought together leaders from government, the private sector, and the medical and scientific community to examine how collaborative action can strengthen Nigeria’s health system and accelerate progress toward Universal Health Coverage. I commend HFN for its continued leadership in mobilising the private sector as a vital partner in shaping a more resilient, equitable, and sustainable health landscape.

As Nigeria navigates demographic growth, evolving health challenges, and economic pressures, achieving Universal Health Coverage requires transforming how healthcare is financed, delivered, and sustained. The private health sector already plays a vital role in providing services, diagnostics, pharmaceuticals, and innovation, and when aligned with strong policy and effective regulation, its expertise can significantly improve quality, access, and long-term sustainability across the health system.

Through the work of The Wellbeing Foundation Africa, we have seen firsthand the transformative impact of partnerships that connect public health priorities with private sector capability. Our programmes supporting maternal, newborn and child health, midwifery strengthening, nutrition, health literacy, and climate-safe WASH demonstrate that innovation, when paired with community engagement and accountability, can deliver measurable improvements in health outcomes.

Achieving Universal Health Coverage is ultimately a shared national endeavour. It requires collaboration across sectors, strengthened health financing systems, robust quality assurance, and data-driven decision making that guides both policy and investment.

I commend the Healthcare Federation of Nigeria for sustaining this vital platform for dialogue and partnership as we collectively advance toward a healthier and more prosperous Nigeria.

 

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