The Federal Government (FG) has reaffirmed its commitment to improving population health outcomes, ensuring financial protection for the poor and vulnerable, and maintaining industrial harmony in the health sector.
This was disclosed by the Coordinating Minister for Health and Social Welfare, Ali Pate, during the 65th National Council on Health (NCH) meeting held in Maiduguri, Borno State.
Speaking at the event, themed “Accelerating Pathways to Universal Health Coverage: Strategies for 2030 Success,” Mr Pate emphasised the administration’s dedication to addressing the nation’s health challenges.
The event attracted Commissioners of Health from all 36 states, ministry officials, development partners, and civil society organizations.
Highlighting recent milestones, Mr Pate said that over 8,000 primary healthcare centres have benefited from the N46 billion Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF).

Additionally, more than 43,000 frontline health workers have been trained under a target of 120,000, with efforts still ongoing.
The minister underscored the revitalization of primary healthcare services, with close to 4,000 centres already upgraded in collaboration with state governments.
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These initiatives aim to expand medical relief programs to ensure that the poorest and most vulnerable have access to essential healthcare services.
On maternal health, he revealed that over 1,000 women with obstetric fistula complications have received free treatment through the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA).
He noted that 30 healthcare facilities across the country now provide similar services to reduce maternal mortality.
By year-end, additional support will be extended to women facing obstetric emergencies, including cesarean sections, under the NHIA reimbursement scheme.
The minister appealed to health professionals to prioritise public welfare, assuring them that the administration is actively addressing their concerns.
“We must keep the people at the centre of our attention. This administration is committed to resolving issues affecting the health workforce,” he stated.
Declaring the meeting open, the Governor of Borno State, Babagana Zulum, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the Abuja Declaration, which mandates states to allocate at least 15% of their annual budget to health.
He announced a pay rise for medical doctors in the state civil service, aligning their salaries with federal counterparts, and directed the state Commissioner of Health to address payment gaps.
Governor Zulum described the NCH meeting as a vital platform for collaboration and progress towards achieving President Bola Tinubu’s vision of accessible healthcare for all Nigerians.
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Meanwhile, the Permanent Secretary Daju Kachollom appreciated Governor Zulum for hosting the meeting and for his commitment to improving healthcare delivery in Borno State.
She also lauded the warm hospitality extended to delegates and participants.
The 65th NCH meeting served as a significant milestone in the FG’s mission to accelerate progress toward universal health coverage by 2030.