WHD: Senate pledges reforms to strengthen Nigeria’s health sector

The Senate Committee on Health (Secondary and Tertiary) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system.

Chairman of the committee, Ipalibo Harry Banigo, made the pledge on Tuesday in a message to mark World Health Day 2026, observed annually on April 7.

She highlighted this year’s theme, “Together for Health: Stand with Science,” stressing the need to prioritise maternal and newborn health.

Banigo said access to quality healthcare must be guaranteed for all Nigerians.

She said: “Quality healthcare is not a privilege for a few, but a fundamental right for all. Every Nigerian deserves access to competent, compassionate, and continuous care.”

The senator said the committee would continue to push legislative reforms to improve healthcare delivery, especially at secondary and tertiary levels.

She also outlined plans to increase investment in health infrastructure and improve training and retention of healthcare workers, particularly in underserved communities.

Banigo called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to address persistent challenges in the sector.

She said: “Let this day serve not only as a moment of reflection, but as a call to action. Together, we can build a nation where healthy beginnings truly lead to hopeful futures.”

She added: “Happy World Health Day. Let us continue to work together to make health for all a reality.”

The committee, she noted, remains committed to advancing universal health coverage, improving emergency response systems, and ensuring sustainable financing for health programmes.