In light of the poor state of public funding in Nigeria’s health sector, the Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) has put forth a comprehensive health agenda for President Bola Tinubu. The agenda aims to address the challenges posed by inadequate funding, rapid population growth, and the fiscal crisis, which have resulted in poor health indicators and an alarming out-of-pocket health expenditure rate of 70.52%, the highest in Sub-Saharan Africa.

The CSJ emphasizes the urgent need for the full implementation of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) Act to reduce the high level of out-of-pocket health expenditure and move closer to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC). By implementing the NHIA Act, the government can create a robust health insurance system that ensures all Nigerians have access to quality health services, protects them from public health risks, and prevents impoverishment due to illness.

To kick start this transformative process, the CSJ recommends that President Tinubu promptly constitute the Governing Council of the Board of the National Health Insurance Authority. This council will play a crucial role in formulating policies and implementing strategies that activate the mandatory health insurance scheme. These efforts will encompass the development of policy frameworks, implementation strategies, sensitization campaigns, educational programs, and awareness creation initiatives. Additionally, enforcement mechanisms should be put in place to ensure compliance with the scheme.

In conjunction with these measures, the CSJ urges the Federal Government of Nigeria to immediately activate the Vulnerable Group Fund. This fund will provide financial support to the poorest and most vulnerable individuals, covering their health insurance premiums. To generate additional resources for the health sector, the CSJ proposes directing the revenue from increased taxes on cigarettes, tobacco, and alcoholic beverages to the Vulnerable Group Fund. This revenue allocation would be justified by the health risks associated with the consumption of these products.

CSJ advocates for an increase in the Basic Health Care Provision Fund to 2 percent of the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the Federal Government. This adjustment would bolster the availability of essential health services and enhance access for all citizens.

By implementing these recommendations, President Tinubu can demonstrate his commitment to improving healthcare in Nigeria. The CSJ’s proposed health agenda addresses the pressing issues of inadequate funding, high out-of-pocket expenditure, and limited access to quality healthcare. It is hoped that through these measures, Nigeria can make significant strides towards achieving Universal Health Coverage and ensuring the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health for all its citizens.