Is the Political Economy Affecting Universal Health Coverage Progress in Nigeria?

The most populous country in Africa, Nigeria, has just re-elected Muhammadu Buhari for a second four-year term as president. Whilst the health agenda did not feature prominently in the debates leading up to the elections, it is a common and significant concern for many Nigerian citizens.

Health remains a core vulnerability in Nigeria’s drive towards economic growth and prosperity, yet as the largest economy in Africa, Nigeria’s public spending on health is less than 1 per cent of its GDP and it total health expenditure accounts to only approximately 4 per cent of its GDP – a stark contrast to the 15 per cent target agreed in the Abuja Declaration for health spending that was endorsed by African leaders in 2001. Consequently, access to basic health services remains a challenge to most citizens and is reflected in the highest levels of out-of-pocket health spending.

However the last four years have shown some progress: there is a coherent national health strategy and increasing political focus and leadership directed towards UHC. This includes improved legislative capabilities for health and an enhanced engagement in health by the media and the public.

The next four years now present Nigeria with an opportunity to make strides towards UHC and improve its human and economic capital. This will largely depend upon the commitments of its political leaders to deliver tangible, measurable and sustainable solutions to current and future health challenges.