Professor Haroun Isah, a Public Health expert at Bingham University’s College of Medical Sciences, has urged Nigeria’s health sector to work more closely with international development partners.
He said these partnerships are necessary to solve ongoing problems in the healthcare system and to improve the health of people across the country.
He made these remarks while delivering Bingham University’s 8th Inaugural Lecture at the university’s main campus in Auta Balefi, Karu, Nasarawa State.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the lecture was titled: “Development Partners in Health and the Nigerian Health System: Harnessing the Power in Partnership in Health.”
Professor Isah explained that development partners are very important in helping Nigeria’s health system. They provide funding, technology, expert advice, and training — areas where Nigeria is still struggling.
He noted that despite some reforms, Nigeria’s health system still faces big challenges like poor infrastructure, low funding, not enough medical workers, and weak leadership.
These issues, he said, reduce the quality and efficiency of healthcare services.
Professor Isah added that development partners help in many ways — from making health policies and funding health projects, to supporting research and training health workers.
They also help improve access to essential health services and strengthen areas like primary healthcare, logistics, and diagnostic services.
He said that strategic partnerships in areas such as funding, training, advocacy, and public-private collaboration have already made some progress in improving health.
To achieve even more, he advised the Nigerian government to keep policies consistent, train people to manage partnerships well, and set up strong systems to monitor and evaluate health projects.
He also called for action against corruption and better coordination between the national and state levels.
“When managed well, these partnerships can truly change the direction of Nigeria’s health sector,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, Bingham University’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Haruna Ayuba, said the lecture came at the right time and highlighted the urgent need for partnerships to build a strong and lasting health system.
He said no single organisation can solve today’s complex health problems alone, and that joint efforts across different sectors are crucial.
Ayuba pointed to the university’s Zankli Research Centre as an example of successful teamwork. The centre works with international organisations, government bodies, and local communities to create health solutions that suit Nigeria’s culture and needs.
He said Bingham University is in a good position to lead in research, train future health professionals, and support a strong health system through innovation.
The Vice Chancellor also encouraged other university departments to take part in academic discussions by giving inaugural lectures. He said the College of Medical Sciences is already ahead with three lectures delivered.
“When we reach our 10th lecture, we will publish the first volume of our Inaugural Lecture Series,” he announced.
He praised Professor Isah for his thoughtful and inspiring lecture, and thanked the Inaugural Lecture Committee, led by Deputy Vice Chancellor Professor Musa Dankyau, for organising the event.
