Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Mohammed Ali Pate, has outlined the major achievements recorded under the Tinubu Administration’s ongoing health sector reforms.
Speaking yesterday at the opening of the 66th Regular Session of the National Council on Health in Calabar, Prof. Pate said this year’s theme, “My Health, My Right: Accelerating Universal Health Coverage through Equity, Resilience, and Innovation,” reflects a renewed national commitment to expanding access to quality healthcare for all Nigerians.
He recalled that 24 months ago, the Council adopted far-reaching decisions to overhaul the health system through a Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp) involving the Federal Government, state governments, development partners, and local councils.
According to him, this year’s meeting marks a two-year milestone with measurable progress now visible.
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Prof. Pate announced key improvements, including a 17% reduction in maternal mortality and a 12% decline in newborn deaths across targeted local government areas. He added that public confidence in the health sector has grown, access to essential services has improved, and the government has increased funding, including the recent release of ₦68 billion to strengthen primary healthcare nationwide.
While acknowledging the progress made, the Minister stressed the need for states to increase investments in health, ensure accountability, and utilize resources efficiently to sustain the momentum toward Universal Health Coverage.
He also appreciated the hospitality of the Cross River State Government, thanking Governor Prince Bassey Otu and Deputy Governor Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, who represented the governor.
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Prof. Pate further acknowledged the Obong of Calabar for his blessings and commended the technical teams, permanent secretaries, directors, and development partners for their work in organizing the Council.
He said the ongoing session will help shape the next phase of Nigeria’s health reforms as the country intensifies efforts to achieve universal access to quality healthcare.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
