ABUJA, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- The Nigerian government has announced plans to design and implement sustainable, country-led health systems with full program ownership, aiming to secure long-term financing for essential health services in the West African nation.
Speaking at a national seminar on improving healthcare delivery on Monday in Abuja, the capital, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare Muhammad Ali Pate said the initiative was prompted by recent suspensions and cuts in donor funding, which have highlighted the need for self-sustaining health systems.
"For over two decades, Nigeria has benefited from the generosity of external partners who have provided financial support, commodities, equipment, and technical expertise," Pate said, noting the changing funding landscape.
He urged local governors to channel increased revenues into funding essential commodities and programmatic costs, stressing the government's goal of steering the health sector toward self-reliance and exploring options for seasonal financing and greater efficiency.
"While we appreciate decades of donor support, we must increasingly take responsibility for the health of our people," he added. ■
