By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has called for a comprehensive policy reform, driven by implementation and measurable accountability to ensure efficient healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
The association's President, Prof. Bala Audu, made the call on Monday at a news conference organised by the Oyo State chapter of NMA in Ibadan to kick-start its 2025 Physicians’ Week.
Represented by the state’s NMA Chairman, Dr Happy Adedapo, Audu emphasised the need for re-engineered health financing, focused on preventive primary care.
He stressed the need for revitalisation of the health workforce, better working conditions and opportunities for growth.
He also stressed the need for operational efficiency through robust logistics, data systems and technology adoption.
He added that “healthcare is not a cost centre, but a value centre. It is an investment in human capital and a pillar of national security and economic growth.
“Imagine a Nigeria where every pregnant woman in rural communities can access early skilled care, drugs and seamless referrals where doctos are empowered to save lives.
“That Nigeria is possible only if we build and strengthen every link in our healthcare value chain.”
The NMA boss said that the 2025 Physicians’ week theme — “Healthcare as a Value Chain: Building Efficiency from Policy to Patient”, encapsulated the urgent need for coordinated, accountable and effective health system.
Audu, therefore, called for a healthy system where every component, from policy formulation to patient care, was optimised to deliver true value to the Nigerian people.
According to him, a value chain refers to a sequence of interdependent actions that transform inputs into outcomes of value.
“When applied to healthcare, it represents the continuum that begins with sound policies and strategic financing that flows through efficient planning, an empowered workforce and effective service delivery,” he said..
The NMA president said that foundational link policy remained the blueprint upon which all other health sector activities rested, noting that well-crafted and evidence-based policies should translate into actions.
Audu called for increased investment in the country’s health workforce to address the brain drain crisis.
He also urged the workforce to see the Physicians’ Week, not only as a celebration of the noble profession, but a clarion call to renew the commitment to a functional, equitable and sustainable health system.
He said “NMA stands ready to work with all levels of government, partners and the public to ensure that healthcare in Nigeria truly delivers value — from policy to patients.” (NAN)
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