Health commissioners from across the country have concluded plans to hold a forum on the role of states in primary health care financing.

Oyebanji Filani, the chairman of the Nigeria Health Commissioners Forum, disclosed this in a statement Monday. 

The forum will hold in Abuja from October 5 to 6.

Mr Filani, the Ekiti health commissioner, observed that Nigeria had witnessed a marked improvement in primary health care delivery. He said primary health care worldwide required adequate financing and service delivery to achieve Universal Health Coverage by 2030.

“High-performing health systems recognise the importance of effective primary health care service as a key driver towards achieving universal health coverage,” the commissioner explained. “Also, strengthening universal health coverage relies strongly on the primary health care structures across Nigeria being able to deliver individual-based care and essential public health to all.’’ 

He added that the forum would take stock of approaches to finance primary health care in states and identify common challenges and policy responses.

According to him, the forum will also develop a shared understanding of the way forward for financing primary health care comprehensively and sustainably.

“The event looks promising, which shows the importance the ecosystem places on this type of activity. We are grateful to all our partners and everyone that has registered,’’ Mr Filani stated.

The health commissioner said the forum would attract participants from both the public and private sectors, including development partners, academics, Civil Society Organisations, and the media.

(NAN)