Legislative Network for Universal Health Coverage (LNU) Holds Fifth Annual Legislative Summit on Health
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The 5th Annual Legislative Summit on Health, convened by the Legislative Network for Universal Health Coverage (LNU), aimed to improve legislative stewardship and accountability for Universal Health Coverage (UHC) held in Abuja, Nigeria between Wednesday 17th and Friday 18th of July 2024 and brought together federal and state legislators, dignitaries, and development partners.
Senator Dr. Ipalibo Harry Banigo, Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and LNU, welcomed delegates and highlighted Nigeria’s poor health development indices, urging urgent measures to address gaps in the healthcare delivery system. Various partners delivered goodwill messages, and presentations were made on the LNU’s journey, progress, and recommendations.
The Honorable Coordinating Minister for Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, emphasized the need for the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative to tackle pressing healthcare issues. He highlighted plans to expand primary healthcare centers, retrain frontline health workers, and promote local production of pharmaceuticals and medical devices.
Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, the WHO’s representative in Nigeria, praised Nigeria’s commitment to UHC and the Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative. Mulombo called for increased government expenditure on health, reduced out-of-pocket costs, and greater private sector engagement for sustainable health improvements.
The summit achieved its purpose, with state legislators developing a holistic legislative health agenda outlining their clear roles in actualizing UHC goals. A communique of action was signed and adopted by LNU members.
The event underscored the importance of collaboration between national and state assemblies, development partners, and private sector engagement to achieve UHC. With commitments from stakeholders, the summit marked a significant step towards strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system and improving health outcomes.
By LISDEL Team
