The concept of Universal Health Coverage (UHC), as defined by the World Health Organisation (WHO), envisions a scenario where people can access healthcare services without facing financial hardship. This means every citizen has the right to high-quality healthcare services without the burden of excessive expenses.
UHC aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by nations globally in 2015. One of the key SDG targets is achieving UHC, ensuring that people receive the necessary healthcare services without suffering financial distress.
To achieve this ambitious goal, President of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Professor Innocent Ujah, stressed that Nigeria must enhance its health sector financing and strengthen the Primary Health Care system (PHC).
In Delta State, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has taken significant strides to meet the 2030 SDG target for universal health coverage. Building on the achievements of his predecessor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, Governor Oborevwori aims to enroll more Deltans, particularly those in the informal sector, into the state’s Contributory Health Commission.
Addressing the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) and the National President of Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Oborevwori emphasized that accessible and affordable healthcare is essential for a healthy and productive population. Delta State has already taken the lead by implementing a mandatory health insurance scheme, with over 1.2 million enrollees.
The Governor assured that his administration would continue collaborating with the Community Pharmacists to enhance healthcare delivery in the state.
Furthermore, Governor Oborevwori affirmed his commitment to workers’ welfare during a protest against the fuel subsidy removal by the Federal Government. He assured that workers remain integral to his administration’s M.O.R.E Agenda (Meaningful Development, Opportunities for all, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security).
In a separate engagement with the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Delta, Governor Oborevwori recognized IPAC’s contribution to Nigerian democracy through advocacy and public policy analysis. He reiterated his administration’s dedication to advancing Delta State with the M.O.R.E Agenda.
Governor Oborevwori even hinted at an innovative solution to the rising fuel costs due to subsidy removal. He proposed exploring the possibility of electric vehicles for mass transportation. As a proactive step, he announced the formation of a committee to assess the economic viability and operational sustainability of electric vehicles in Nigeria.
By focusing on strengthening healthcare systems and adopting sustainable transportation solutions, Delta State, under Governor Oborevwori’s leadership, is making significant strides towards achieving both Universal Health Coverage and environmentally friendly transportation.
