Nigeria is grappling with a critical shortage of essential medicines, with a reported 35% deficit across medical facilities nationwide in 2023, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
The shortage is just one of several challenges undermining the country’s healthcare system, as revealed in the newly launched National Health Facility Survey (NHFS) Report 2023.
The Statistician General of NBS, Dr. Adeyemi Adeniran highlighted the report’s key findings during the launch event in Abuja.
The data indicates that despite various reforms and investments from the government and development partners, significant issues remain in Nigeria’s healthcare system.
Notably, the report cites a concerning infant mortality rate of 63 per 1,000 live births.
“Despite ongoing efforts, such as government reforms and international partnerships aimed at improving healthcare, critical challenges persist, such as the 35% shortage of essential medicines and the high infant mortality rate,” said Dr. Adeniran.
He emphasized that these issues hinder Nigeria’s ability to provide equitable healthcare, particularly in underserved and remote areas.
Another significant concern raised was the migration of healthcare professionals. Many Nigerian doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers are leaving the country for better salaries, working conditions, and career opportunities abroad, particularly in developed nations like the United States and the United Kingdom.
This migration has compounded the already severe shortage of skilled healthcare workers in the country, further straining the healthcare system.
The NHFS 2023 report builds upon previous surveys conducted in 2016 and 2019, with enhanced data collection tools and a focus on primary healthcare service delivery.
Dr. Adeniran noted that the survey’s new Service Delivery Indicators (SDIs), developed in collaboration with the World Bank and the African Economic Research Consortium (AERC), aim to assess service availability and improve governance and accountability in the healthcare system.
Despite challenges such as insufficient funding, outdated infrastructure, and a lack of skilled personnel, the NBS report serves as a critical resource for policymakers, health administrators, and stakeholders, offering evidence-based recommendations for improving healthcare outcomes.
“We must use this data to guide targeted interventions, especially in primary healthcare, where improvements are most needed,” said Dr. Adeniran, urging for reforms that address the most urgent issues facing Nigeria’s healthcare system.
