Mirian Gom 
Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Pate
ABUJA, Nigeria – Nigeria is facing a widening rehabilitation care gap, with one in five citizens requiring services but most lacking access, health authorities have said.
The Coordinating Minister of Health, Ali Pate, disclosed this on Wednesday at a national stakeholders’ workshop, warning that limited access continues to undermine healthcare delivery.
Officials said the government is developing a National Rehabilitation Strategy aligned with global targets set by the World Health Organization under its Rehabilitation 2030 initiative.
According to the ministry, up to 60% of those needing rehabilitation services currently do not receive care, highlighting gaps in infrastructure, workforce and financing.
Plans are underway to integrate rehabilitation into health insurance through the National Health Insurance Authority, reducing out-of-pocket costs for vulnerable populations.
Experts also pointed to the absence of a national policy framework, warning that without clear coordination, service delivery will remain fragmented.
Stakeholders said expanding access—particularly in rural communities—will be critical to achieving Universal Health Coverage and improving outcomes for persons with disabilities.
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Koko Maxwella 
