Kaduna, Nigeria: The Health For All Media Initiative (HAMI) has called on the Federal and State Governments to take urgent, deliberate steps towards strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system through science-based policies and increased inclusive investments.
In a statement issued to mark World Health Day 2026, HAMI aligned with the global theme “Together for health. Stand with science,” urging authorities at all levels to prioritise evidence-based decision-making, sustained funding, and coordinated action to improve health outcomes across the country.
The group highlighted persistent challenges facing Nigeria’s health sector, including inadequate infrastructure, acute shortage of skilled personnel, rising cases of preventable diseases, and weak health communication systems. It stressed that overcoming these issues demands a strong commitment to science, data-driven policies, and community-centred healthcare delivery.
HAMI specifically urged the Federal Government to significantly improve budgetary allocation and performance in the health sector — currently hovering around 4.2% of the national budget, far below the 15% Abuja Declaration target — while strengthening primary healthcare systems and ensuring effective implementation of existing policies.
The initiative also called on State Governments to domesticate national health frameworks, expand access to quality care in rural areas, and prioritise essential services for vulnerable populations, including women and children.
Additionally, HAMI emphasised the urgent need to combat misinformation, disinformation, and malinformation, which continue to erode public trust in the healthcare system. The group warned that rebuilding confidence requires transparent communication and sustained public engagement, especially in critical areas such as vaccination, maternal health, and disease prevention.
“Nigeria cannot achieve universal health coverage without a unified approach that places science, equity, and collaboration at the centre of health governance,” the statement read.
HAMI reaffirmed its commitment to promoting accountability, amplifying key health issues, and supporting policies that ensure equitable healthcare delivery for all Nigerians.
The statement was signed by the Secretary of the initiative, Sola Ojo.
