By Aderogba George
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has reiterated its commitment to expanding healthcare services and insurance enrolment as part of efforts toward achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030.
Dr Adedolapo Fasawe, Mandate Secretary of the Health Services and Environment Secretariat (HSES), made this statement on Thursday during a road walk to commemorate the International Day of UHC on Dec. 12, 2024.
She was represented by Dr Babagana Adams, Permanent Secretary of HSES.
Fasawe emphasised that the present administration was focused on achieving the UHC target for 2030.
She assured that she would deliver the call to action from the FCT Health Insurance Scheme (FHIS) to the appropriate authorities, urging improvements in the health sector in the FCT.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that he FHIS had earlier called for the FCTA to support digital innovation in healthcare, invest in public health infrastructure, and Primary Health Care (PHCs).
It also requested legislative support to enforce mandatory enrolments, particularly in the informal sector, in the FCT.
“Other recommendations included the provision of an equity fund, 2 per cent of the Consolidated Revenue Fund to enrol the poor and vulnerable, addressing gaps in Human Resources for Health (HRH) at all levels of care, and tackling insecurity in rural areas.
“I assure you that I will deliver this note to the FCT administration with the utmost care and commitment.
“Your voices, concerns, and aspirations for a healthier future will be echoed in our ongoing dialogue with stakeholders,” Fasawe said.
She also commended the FHIS team for organising the road walk and ongoing sensitisation activities across the six area councils, noting that these efforts exemplified the spirit of community and advocacy.
“Your dedication to spreading awareness about UHC is inspiring, and the success of the road walk speaks volumes about our shared commitment to health equity.
“Together, we can mobilise our communities, educate our citizens, and relentlessly pursue the goal of a healthier Nigeria for all.
“The journey toward UHC requires tenacity, collaboration, and innovation from all of us,” she added.
Dr Salamatu Belgore, Acting Director of FHIS, also highlighted the importance of UHC, stressing that its benefits far outweighed the costs.
She explained that achieving UHC would improve health outcomes, reduce poverty, and promote economic growth.
“UHC ensures that all people have access to the full range of quality health services they need, when and where they need them, without financial hardship.
“Investing in UHC enhances equity and social cohesion, benefits the national economy by improving health and well-being, increases workforce participation and productivity, and builds resilience in individuals, families, and communities,” Belgore said.
NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA