LAGOS, Nigeria – Healthcare stakeholders have called for urgent reforms, increased investment and stronger collaboration to address systemic challenges limiting healthcare access and innovation in Nigeria.
The call was made on Tuesday during the World Health Expo held at the Landmark Centre in Lagos, where policymakers, investors, healthcare providers and development partners gathered to discuss the future of healthcare delivery.
Among participants were the Minister of State for Health, Dr Iziaq Adekunle Salako, and the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Professor Akin Abayomi.
Speaking at the event, President of the Healthcare Federation of Nigeria (HFN), Mrs Njide Ndili, identified key barriers hindering growth within the sector.
“Regulatory barriers, financing gaps, supply chain challenges, local capacity constraints and limited system readiness remain major obstacles slowing growth and innovation in healthcare,” Ndili said.
She stressed the need for coordinated action among stakeholders to unlock investment opportunities and strengthen healthcare systems.
According to Ndili, the federation’s framework focuses on connecting investors with viable healthcare projects, supporting local production, improving market readiness and advancing quality standards.
“Our goal is to create an environment that fosters market entry and the adoption of innovation across the healthcare ecosystem,” she said.
Stakeholders also discussed strategies to strengthen digital health solutions, improve healthcare financing and expand access to quality medical services.
The World Health Expo serves as a platform for collaboration between government agencies, healthcare providers, investors and innovators seeking sustainable solutions to Nigeria’s healthcare challenges.
Experts at the event expressed optimism that increased investment and policy reforms could improve health outcomes and strengthen the country’s healthcare infrastructure.
