The federal government has taken a significant step towards strengthening healthcare regulation by forming the Committee for the Establishment of the National Health Facility Regulatory Agency (NHFRA). This initiative aims to enhance healthcare standards, addressing gaps and improving coordination among health agencies across the country.
During the committee’s inauguration in Abuja, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Tunji Alausa, emphasized the committee’s role in developing the governance framework, operational guidelines, and legislative structure for the NHFRA. He stressed that the committee, comprising representatives from both the public and private sectors, including regulatory bodies and professional associations, will ensure that healthcare facilities adhere to strict regulations and quality standards, with the goal of eliminating malpractice and fostering optimal healthcare operations.
The committee is chaired by Dr. Richard Ajayi, Chairman of Bridge Clinic, and includes prominent members such as Tomi Coker, Ogun State Commissioner for Health; Aminat Ahmed El-Imam, Kwara State Commissioner for Health; Njide Ndili, Country Director of PharmAccess; Omede Idris from the Nigerian Medical Association; Nnaemeka Nwakanma from the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria; Manason Garkuwa from the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria; and several subject matter experts, among others.
Minister Alausa highlighted the urgency of creating a strong regulatory framework to tackle pressing issues in Nigeria’s healthcare system, citing incidents like illegal organ trafficking as clear examples of the need for stringent oversight. He assured that the formation of the committee is a pivotal move toward enforcing safety standards and restoring public trust in healthcare services.
“This committee is not just another regulatory body; it is an essential agent of change. We are committed to bridging gaps in our healthcare system and enforcing standards to prevent malpractice,” the Minister said. “Addressing these challenges requires a unified approach, and this committee is well-equipped to achieve its objectives.”
Dr. Ajayi, the committee chairman, expressed optimism about the committee’s ability to significantly elevate healthcare quality across the nation. “Our mission is clear: to establish a regulatory body that is both effective and responsive to the needs of our healthcare system. We will develop and rigorously implement comprehensive guidelines, ensuring that quality and safety remain at the forefront,” he said.
Njide Ndili, Country Director of PharmAccess, noted the importance of the committee’s work in improving healthcare delivery. “PharmAccess is delighted to be a member of this important committee. We look forward to leveraging our extensive experience in championing quality programs across Nigeria and Africa to shape a robust regulatory framework for healthcare facilities,” she stated.
The FCT Mandate Secretary on Health Services and Environment, Adedolapo Fasawe, also praised the formation of the committee, underscoring its importance in ensuring accountability in the public healthcare sector. “We must hold ourselves accountable to the highest standards. This initiative is not just about compliance but about laying a foundation for future generations,” Fasawe remarked, calling it a historic moment for the nation’s healthcare system.
The formation of the NHFRA committee marks a key milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to reform its healthcare infrastructure, ensuring that both public and private healthcare facilities operate under stringent, well-defined regulatory standards aimed at safeguarding the well-being of citizens.
