The Healthcare Federation of Nigeria is advocating for stronger partnerships with the government to position Nigeria as a leading hub for medical tourism in West Africa.

Pamela Ajayi, president of the HFN, said on Monday in Abuja that the private sector-led initiatives encouraging Nigerian medical professionals abroad to return and establish world-class hospitals are already yielding positive results.

“We are seeing Nigerian hospitals trusted, not just by locals, but also by international patients.

“Some are coming from the U.S. and Europe because they are getting the same quality care at a more affordable cost,” she said.

She cited examples of high-profile Nigerians, including a vice president, trusting local facilities for medical procedures, which she said signalled growing confidence in the system.

However, Ms Ajayi said Nigeria’s healthcare system still faced significant challenges.

She highlighted the country’s low life expectancy, currently between 50 years and 55 years, compared to Ghana’s 60 years, alongside high maternal and infant mortality rates.

She called for implementing the 2022 National Health Insurance Act, signed into law by former President Muhammadu Buhari, which mandates compulsory health insurance for all Nigerians.

“If resources are channelled to where the problems are, we can greatly improve the system,” she said.

According to her, with proper funding, collaboration, and the promotion of universal healthcare coverage, Nigerians will enjoy better access to quality care while positioning the country as a destination for affordable medical services.

“Healthcare must be a priority. Together, we can make Nigeria not just healthier but also a hub of medical excellence in Africa,” Ms Ajayi said.

She also announced the HFN 10th-anniversary event for February 27 and 28.

She said the event would bring together stakeholders, including policymakers, private healthcare providers, and equipment manufacturers, to advance the nation’s healthcare agenda.

(NAN)