Jonathan Urges Church to Lead Nigeria’s Healthcare Revolution for Equitable Access

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has called on the Church to spearhead a revolution in Nigeria’s healthcare system, emphasizing its crucial role in advancing equitable health access for all Nigerians.

In his keynote address at the inaugural Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion Health Summit in Abuja on Wednesday, Jonathan highlighted the Church’s historical contributions to the health and education sectors. Represented by Prof. John-Kennedy Opara, former Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC), Jonathan reflected on key milestones in Nigeria’s healthcare journey, including the courageous efforts of healthcare workers like Dr. Stella Adadevoh during the 2014 Ebola crisis.

Jonathan underscored the significance of the National Health Act, signed into law during his administration, which he credited for improving healthcare access for millions of Nigerians. “The National Health Act 2014 established a framework for the provision of essential health services, the management of health resources, and the protection of patients’ rights,” he stated. He noted that today, over 10 million Nigerians benefit from health insurance provided by various state social health insurance schemes.

However, Jonathan acknowledged that gaps still remain in Nigeria’s healthcare system and urged the Anglican Church to take the lead in addressing these disparities. He called on faith-based organizations to leverage their influence to advocate for equitable healthcare policies and foster partnerships with the government and private sector. “The Church must harness its platforms and resources to lead a transformative health initiative that ensures that no Nigerian is left behind in the quest for quality, affordable healthcare,” Jonathan asserted.

The Primate of All Nigeria Anglican Church, Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, echoed this sentiment, outlining a visionary framework for integrating holistic health into the Church’s mission. He emphasized the Church’s historical role in pioneering healthcare in Nigeria and called for a renewed commitment to comprehensive healthcare, blending physical, mental, and spiritual well-being in alignment with Biblical teachings and modern health standards.

Ndukuba highlighted the urgent need for the Church to address Nigeria’s healthcare challenges, which are exacerbated by corruption and inadequate government response. He proposed strategic initiatives such as the establishment of the Church of Nigeria Health Commission to standardize healthcare services and a Health Maintenance Organisation (HMO) to cater to the healthcare needs of Nigerians. Additionally, he advocated for the development of pharmaceutical production and a fellowship for healthcare professionals to enhance the Church’s medical outreach.

Concluding the summit, Mr. Peter Nmadu, chairman of the National Steering Committee, emphasized the importance of healthcare in the Church’s mission. He acknowledged the challenges faced, including recent health crises, and called for a coordinated response. Nmadu thanked the Church leadership and participants, urging a collective effort towards a healthier future for both the Church and society.

The summit’s mission is to assess the Church’s historical contributions to healthcare, develop strategies for improvement, and establish a comprehensive health policy to advance the Church’s role in holistic health ministry.