In its first year, the 10th Senate introduced only 54 bills aimed at addressing challenges in the health sector.
Nigeria’s healthcare system is in dire crisis, exacerbated by the exodus of health practitioners seeking better opportunities abroad—a phenomenon known as ‘japa.’ Despite the introduction of 54 health-related bills, these efforts are far yet to yield significant improvements in healthcare delivery, which is particularly alarming given the sector’s chronic neglect, underfunding, and infrastructural deficits that leave millions without adequate medical care.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Nigeria ranks among the lowest globally in terms of healthcare quality, marked by inadequate access to essential medical services, high maternal and infant mortality rates, and insufficient health infrastructure.
54 bills that miss the mark
At first glance, the introduction of 54 health-related bills might seem promising, yet the absence of substantial improvements indicates the shortcomings of these legislative endeavors. Most bills primarily focus on the establishment of new health agencies, and infrastructures, with few addressing the systemic challenges fueling the healthcare crisis, notably the “japa” phenomenon.
While legislation can create the legal foundation for reforms, fundamental issues in the health sector necessitate more than new laws—they require effective implementation, adequate funding, and practical solutions to retain healthcare professionals, enhance infrastructure, and guarantee quality care access for all Nigerians.
Call for urgency and ambition
Nigeria’s healthcare sector urgently needs ambitious legislative intervention to avert total collapse. The senate must now prioritize healthcare reform as a national emergency, focusing on retaining healthcare workers, improving infrastructure, increasing funding, and ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare for all citizens. Only through decisive action can Nigeria hope to reverse the decline of its health sector and deliver the medical care its populace deserves.
10th NASS Report Card: Read up on the performance of other senators and members of House and other specialized categories here
