The Federal Government has vowed to intensify its campaign against the polio virus in 2010 by introducing a bivalent vaccine that would help in eradicating the virus in the country.
The Executive Director, Primary Health Care Development Agency (PHCDA), Dr. Muhammad Aliyu Pate, while speaking in Abuja midweek, said the new vaccine, found to be very effective in the fight against polio in other parts of the world, would be introduced by April 2010.
Although he said the agency was keen on the prospect of introducing the new vaccine to intensify the campaign against polio, it would not rush the process so as to secure the approval of the regulatory agency before the introduction.
Pate said the vaccine had been found to be more effective in the campaign for the eradication of polio in Afghanistan and other countries, adding that the drug was ambivalent because it could be used to fight both the type ‘one’ and type ‘three’ of the virus at the same time.
“We have indicated interest to use the new bivalent vaccine. It is essentially the same vaccine but two vaccines in one.
“You know there are three types of the vaccine. There is one that is for only one virus at a time. You can tackle type ‘one’ or you tackle type ‘three’, and then there is another one that you can use to tackle all the three.
“When you give all the three, the trivalent vaccine, it is not as effective as when you give one vaccine at a time. But the bivalent vaccine has shown promise and it is working very well.
“And if we can get it into our country, it will enable us to move twice as fast in the campaign. Instead of doing one at a time, we can do a bivalent, and it can give us both 1 and 3 at the same time”, he explained.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Osotimehin lays foundation of VVF Centre at Kwali
The Minister of Health, Professor Babatunde Osotimehin, Tuesday laid the foundation stone of the Vesico Vagina Fistula [VVF] Centre at Kwali via Abuja with a call on all VVF patients in the country to come out for adequate treatment.
He said the ceremony, witnessed by major stakeholders in the health sector, was part of Federal Government’s efforts to reduce the disease to the barest minimum in the country, adding that the centre, when completed, would be use for the treatment, education and research on the disease.
Osotimehin pledged the continued efforts of his ministry in educating Nigerians on the need to avoid VVF and establish responsible parenthood for healthy living.
The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mr. Linus Awute had explained the centre, when completed, would be the first of its kind in Africa and second in the world.
Awute, who also described maternal mortality as one of the country’s major health issue, expressed believe that the centre would go a long way in improving reproductive health and checking HIV/AIDS among Nigerians.
The United Nations Population Fund [UNFPA] Resident Representative in Nigeria, Dr Lawson Agatha, also agreed that maternal mortality was a major health issue in the country and promised that the treatment of VVF patients would be increased when the centre is completed.
According to Dr. Lawson, VVF is a disease that leaves affected women, especially the young ones, with chronic incontinence and can lead to bladder and kidney infections.
She, therefore, solicited the continued support of the government and people of the country for UNFPA in bringing succour to Nigerians on VVF and maternal mortality.
The VVF Ambassador and 2009 Miss Aso, Queen Helen Igweche in her remarks, called for the education of girl-child, illiterate husbands, religious and community leaders on the implication of early marriage or rape with no regard for the human dignity or psychological well being of women.
She described some causes of VVF in women as part of violence against women, adding that this threatened the rights, health and wellbeing of women in the country.
Queen Igweche, therefore, appealed to the government to enforce sanctions on violence against women and children in the country.
Other dignitaries at the ceremony included the chairman, Senate Committee on Health, Dr. Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello who informed about the history of the centre and final choice of the Federal Capital Territory for the project; representatives of the Women Affairs Minister, Hajia Salamatu Suleiman; Special Adviser (MDGs) to the President, Hajia Aminat Ibrahim and others.
He said the ceremony, witnessed by major stakeholders in the health sector, was part of Federal Government’s efforts to reduce the disease to the barest minimum in the country, adding that the centre, when completed, would be use for the treatment, education and research on the disease.
Osotimehin pledged the continued efforts of his ministry in educating Nigerians on the need to avoid VVF and establish responsible parenthood for healthy living.
The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mr. Linus Awute had explained the centre, when completed, would be the first of its kind in Africa and second in the world.
Awute, who also described maternal mortality as one of the country’s major health issue, expressed believe that the centre would go a long way in improving reproductive health and checking HIV/AIDS among Nigerians.
The United Nations Population Fund [UNFPA] Resident Representative in Nigeria, Dr Lawson Agatha, also agreed that maternal mortality was a major health issue in the country and promised that the treatment of VVF patients would be increased when the centre is completed.
According to Dr. Lawson, VVF is a disease that leaves affected women, especially the young ones, with chronic incontinence and can lead to bladder and kidney infections.
She, therefore, solicited the continued support of the government and people of the country for UNFPA in bringing succour to Nigerians on VVF and maternal mortality.
The VVF Ambassador and 2009 Miss Aso, Queen Helen Igweche in her remarks, called for the education of girl-child, illiterate husbands, religious and community leaders on the implication of early marriage or rape with no regard for the human dignity or psychological well being of women.
She described some causes of VVF in women as part of violence against women, adding that this threatened the rights, health and wellbeing of women in the country.
Queen Igweche, therefore, appealed to the government to enforce sanctions on violence against women and children in the country.
Other dignitaries at the ceremony included the chairman, Senate Committee on Health, Dr. Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello who informed about the history of the centre and final choice of the Federal Capital Territory for the project; representatives of the Women Affairs Minister, Hajia Salamatu Suleiman; Special Adviser (MDGs) to the President, Hajia Aminat Ibrahim and others.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Osotimehin tasks doctors, others on health
The Minister of Health, Professor Babatunde Osotimehin has again called on all stakeholders in the health sector to be alive to their responsibilities for effective and efficient health care delivery in the country.
Osotimehin who made the call at the Presidential Summit on Health in Abuja, stressed the need for doctors, nurses, pharmacists and other health personnel to introduce human face to their jobs, “because health is about life”.
“Patients have a lot of confidence in doctors, nurses, pharmacists whether skilled or unskilled and for this reason, I want to urge our colleagues to always sustain the patients’ confidence in them by attending to their needs promptly”, he said.
The minister, who spoke on “Health in Nigeria: The Situation Analysis”, said the current health situation in the country was unacceptable and charged all stakeholders to contribute towards the implementation of the Vision 20:2020 for improved health system.
According to Osotimehin, forming a national partnership on health based on collective responsibility would go a long way in improving the health status of Nigerians “as no problem is insurmountable”.
The Federal Government, he disclosed is presently revitalizing Primary Health Care (PHC) to improve the health of all citizens, noting that the strategy of using traditional and religious leaders for PHC delivery had been yielding fruitful results.
Earlier in an opening address, the Minister of State for Health, Dr Aliyu Idi Hong had asserted that the health needs of the people could be majorly impacted and sustained at the state and local governments’ levels.
To achieve this, Hong stressed the need to develop strategies that would be owned and driven by the states through the direct involvement of the state governors and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Administration.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mr. Linus Awute, explained that the summit would go a long way in ensuring that the federal and state governments work together for improved health indices of the country.
Osotimehin who made the call at the Presidential Summit on Health in Abuja, stressed the need for doctors, nurses, pharmacists and other health personnel to introduce human face to their jobs, “because health is about life”.
“Patients have a lot of confidence in doctors, nurses, pharmacists whether skilled or unskilled and for this reason, I want to urge our colleagues to always sustain the patients’ confidence in them by attending to their needs promptly”, he said.
The minister, who spoke on “Health in Nigeria: The Situation Analysis”, said the current health situation in the country was unacceptable and charged all stakeholders to contribute towards the implementation of the Vision 20:2020 for improved health system.
According to Osotimehin, forming a national partnership on health based on collective responsibility would go a long way in improving the health status of Nigerians “as no problem is insurmountable”.
The Federal Government, he disclosed is presently revitalizing Primary Health Care (PHC) to improve the health of all citizens, noting that the strategy of using traditional and religious leaders for PHC delivery had been yielding fruitful results.
Earlier in an opening address, the Minister of State for Health, Dr Aliyu Idi Hong had asserted that the health needs of the people could be majorly impacted and sustained at the state and local governments’ levels.
To achieve this, Hong stressed the need to develop strategies that would be owned and driven by the states through the direct involvement of the state governors and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Administration.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mr. Linus Awute, explained that the summit would go a long way in ensuring that the federal and state governments work together for improved health indices of the country.
Friday, November 13, 2009
FG reassures Nigerians on Swine Flu
Following the first recorded case of Influenza A (H1N1), otherwise called Swine Flu in Nigeria, the Federal Government said there is no cause for panic, assuring that all Nigerians would be protected from the pandemic.
The Federal Ministry of Health had announced on Wednesday that the case was reported in Nigeria of a nine-year-old female American girl residing in Lagos.
In a statement by his Special Assistant on Communications, Mr. Niyi Ojuolape, the Minister of Health, Professor Babatunde Osotimehin said the girl had presented flu-like symptoms of fever, sore throat, nasal congestion and nausea to the American Consular clinic in Lagos and before treatment was started, nasal specimens were taken for routine testing.
“Subsequently, the girl recovered fully with symptomatic treatment after five days of duration of illness”, he said, adding. “Further to checks in this regard, it has been confirmed that the father, brother and all school contacts of the girl did not suffer from any flu-like symptoms and they are all well. The mother had mild symptoms but recovered fully”.
“All other contacts have been tested and they have been found negative to the Influenza A(H1N1). No other school pupil or person in the girl’s school has flu-like symptoms or is absent from school because of any illness.
“The Lagos State Ministry of Health, where the instant case occurred is aware of the case and further contact tracing, screening and active surveillance carried out by the state has shown that there is no other reported case so far.
“The Federal Ministry of Health and all the states’ ministries of health have strengthened their preparedness and response plans and have put in place enhanced surveillance to pick up and contain any case that may occur. Indeed, all 36 states’ epidemiologists are currently meeting in Kaduna to fine-tune the country’s coordinated response to possible outbreaks of epidemics.
“To arrest any eventuality, the Federal Ministry of Health has prepositioned in all the 36 states and FCT, adequate quantities of Tamiflu, the anti-viral drug for treatment and other medical supplies for containment of cases of the Influenza”, the statement read.
Osotimehin added that the ministry had also strengthened and intensified expanded public awareness and sensitisation campaigns to improve public awareness and knowledge about the pandemic in order to further prevent or contain the influenza pandemic.
While informing that the Federal Government was making efforts to procure vaccines in conjunction with the World Health Organisation (WHO), he stressed the need for routine precautions to prevent the spread of infectious diseases like hands’ washing with soap and water, nose and mouth covering while sneezing or coughing.
The Federal Ministry of Health had announced on Wednesday that the case was reported in Nigeria of a nine-year-old female American girl residing in Lagos.
In a statement by his Special Assistant on Communications, Mr. Niyi Ojuolape, the Minister of Health, Professor Babatunde Osotimehin said the girl had presented flu-like symptoms of fever, sore throat, nasal congestion and nausea to the American Consular clinic in Lagos and before treatment was started, nasal specimens were taken for routine testing.
“Subsequently, the girl recovered fully with symptomatic treatment after five days of duration of illness”, he said, adding. “Further to checks in this regard, it has been confirmed that the father, brother and all school contacts of the girl did not suffer from any flu-like symptoms and they are all well. The mother had mild symptoms but recovered fully”.
“All other contacts have been tested and they have been found negative to the Influenza A(H1N1). No other school pupil or person in the girl’s school has flu-like symptoms or is absent from school because of any illness.
“The Lagos State Ministry of Health, where the instant case occurred is aware of the case and further contact tracing, screening and active surveillance carried out by the state has shown that there is no other reported case so far.
“The Federal Ministry of Health and all the states’ ministries of health have strengthened their preparedness and response plans and have put in place enhanced surveillance to pick up and contain any case that may occur. Indeed, all 36 states’ epidemiologists are currently meeting in Kaduna to fine-tune the country’s coordinated response to possible outbreaks of epidemics.
“To arrest any eventuality, the Federal Ministry of Health has prepositioned in all the 36 states and FCT, adequate quantities of Tamiflu, the anti-viral drug for treatment and other medical supplies for containment of cases of the Influenza”, the statement read.
Osotimehin added that the ministry had also strengthened and intensified expanded public awareness and sensitisation campaigns to improve public awareness and knowledge about the pandemic in order to further prevent or contain the influenza pandemic.
While informing that the Federal Government was making efforts to procure vaccines in conjunction with the World Health Organisation (WHO), he stressed the need for routine precautions to prevent the spread of infectious diseases like hands’ washing with soap and water, nose and mouth covering while sneezing or coughing.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
How to Keep Doctors at Rural Areas, By Minister
Provision of good work environment and other incentives to cushion the effects of living in the rural areas have been described as parts of the essential requirements for attracting and keeping doctors and nurses to man primary health care facilities at the grassroots.
The Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Salamatu Hussaini Suleiman gave the assertion during an advocacy visit to her Health counterpart, Professor Babatunde Osotimehin in Abuja.
This, with complete free maternal and child health care, Mrs. Suleiman added, would go a long way in reducing the incidences of maternal and child mortality in the country.
While commending the Federal Ministry of Health for engaging traditional rulers in mobilizing community support for primary health care delivery, she stressed the need to address social norms that limit women’s knowledge and skills in health care services.
Mrs. Suleiman explained that her ministry is currently engaged in advocacy to all the tiers of government to ensure that there is renewed political and financial commitments at all levels towards improving maternal and child care, and other related issues to the advancement of the less privileged.
The minister maintained: “Indeed, no society can advance without investing large proportions of its resources on health and well being of its citizenry, and no nation can become great unless its children, who are leaders of tomorrow, are protected and allowed to survive and develop in an enabling environment”.
She said the two ministries shared many things in common including the responsibility of providing health and other related services to women, children, and persons with disabilities, older citizens and other vulnerable groups, describing their joint collaboration as critical towards achieving the national goals.
The minister, while lamenting the position of Nigeria among countries with the highest cases of maternal and child mortality, asserted that “this trend must be reversed if we are to meet our national goals and global undertakings, particularly Goals 3 and 4 of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)”.
According to Mrs. Suleiman, it was in the light of this that that her ministry was granted funds under the 2009 budget to compliment the Federal Ministry of Health’s initiatives towards improving the maternal and child health, particularly at the grassroots.
Collaboration between the two ministries, she noted would provide a strong synergy in executing their programmes to enhance the welfare of Nigerians, advising the Federal Ministry of Health to put the interest of women, children, people living with disabilities, and the aged in all its policies and initiatives.
Responding, the Minister of Health, Professor Babatunde Osotimehin described the initiative of the collaboration as a unique step towards enhancing national development, promising the cooperation of his ministry for the success of the new efforts.
For the initiative to succeed, he, however, stressed the need for more resources and girl- child education, explaining that “the more population of educated women, the better for the country, because many Nigerians will be trained”
Osotimehin also emphasized the need to educate and sensitize the men on their roles and responsibilities without assuming that they were perfect human beings, and commended the activities of civil groups in correcting the ills of the society.
The Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Salamatu Hussaini Suleiman gave the assertion during an advocacy visit to her Health counterpart, Professor Babatunde Osotimehin in Abuja.
This, with complete free maternal and child health care, Mrs. Suleiman added, would go a long way in reducing the incidences of maternal and child mortality in the country.
While commending the Federal Ministry of Health for engaging traditional rulers in mobilizing community support for primary health care delivery, she stressed the need to address social norms that limit women’s knowledge and skills in health care services.
Mrs. Suleiman explained that her ministry is currently engaged in advocacy to all the tiers of government to ensure that there is renewed political and financial commitments at all levels towards improving maternal and child care, and other related issues to the advancement of the less privileged.
The minister maintained: “Indeed, no society can advance without investing large proportions of its resources on health and well being of its citizenry, and no nation can become great unless its children, who are leaders of tomorrow, are protected and allowed to survive and develop in an enabling environment”.
She said the two ministries shared many things in common including the responsibility of providing health and other related services to women, children, and persons with disabilities, older citizens and other vulnerable groups, describing their joint collaboration as critical towards achieving the national goals.
The minister, while lamenting the position of Nigeria among countries with the highest cases of maternal and child mortality, asserted that “this trend must be reversed if we are to meet our national goals and global undertakings, particularly Goals 3 and 4 of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)”.
According to Mrs. Suleiman, it was in the light of this that that her ministry was granted funds under the 2009 budget to compliment the Federal Ministry of Health’s initiatives towards improving the maternal and child health, particularly at the grassroots.
Collaboration between the two ministries, she noted would provide a strong synergy in executing their programmes to enhance the welfare of Nigerians, advising the Federal Ministry of Health to put the interest of women, children, people living with disabilities, and the aged in all its policies and initiatives.
Responding, the Minister of Health, Professor Babatunde Osotimehin described the initiative of the collaboration as a unique step towards enhancing national development, promising the cooperation of his ministry for the success of the new efforts.
For the initiative to succeed, he, however, stressed the need for more resources and girl- child education, explaining that “the more population of educated women, the better for the country, because many Nigerians will be trained”
Osotimehin also emphasized the need to educate and sensitize the men on their roles and responsibilities without assuming that they were perfect human beings, and commended the activities of civil groups in correcting the ills of the society.
Monday, October 5, 2009
No swine flu vaccines in developing countries yet
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared that vaccine to reduce the effects of swine flu pandemic is not yet available in the developing countries.
No fewer than 27 deaths and 5,035 confirmed cases of the pandemic have been reported in 23 countries in Africa.
Director General of WHO, Dr Margaret Chan disclosed this recently at a special session of the 59th WHO Regional Committee for Africa in Kigali, Rwanda.
Dr. Chan, however, added that the vaccine is presently undergoing clinical trials and being administered in some developed countries, but yet to reach the African shores.
Some countries in Africa had recently raised concerns over the demand by the Saudi Arabian authorities that all pilgrims must be immunized against the swine flu before being allowed to perform this year’s Hajj.
Lamenting over the inability of the organization to source for funds that will be channeled to fight the swine flu, the WHO boss said a fund must be put aside to deal with epidemics as they occur, as it was difficult to acquire funds when it is needed.
Dr Chan, who was moved to tears while speaking, decried the situation where most countries are undergoing yet another pandemic in the face of so many health issues and economic meltdown.
While calling for a collective pool of support and funds to assist affected countries, she said “no developing country should be allowed to face this pandemic alone; we must as a continent support each other to fight this”.
She pointed out that the vaccines which are still undergoing clinical trials would soon be ready; advising that countries must be on alert to treat immediately it is diagnosed “because it is a tricky situation”.
Also speaking at the session, Nigeria’s Health Minister, Professor Babatunde Osotimehin, expressed grave concern over the non availability of vaccines needed in African countries, saying it was a challenge which the continent could not handle.
The minister, however, challenged WHO to ensure that Africa is given first priority whenever the vaccines are available; due to the peculiar circumstances that surrounds the system.
No fewer than 27 deaths and 5,035 confirmed cases of the pandemic have been reported in 23 countries in Africa.
Director General of WHO, Dr Margaret Chan disclosed this recently at a special session of the 59th WHO Regional Committee for Africa in Kigali, Rwanda.
Dr. Chan, however, added that the vaccine is presently undergoing clinical trials and being administered in some developed countries, but yet to reach the African shores.
Some countries in Africa had recently raised concerns over the demand by the Saudi Arabian authorities that all pilgrims must be immunized against the swine flu before being allowed to perform this year’s Hajj.
Lamenting over the inability of the organization to source for funds that will be channeled to fight the swine flu, the WHO boss said a fund must be put aside to deal with epidemics as they occur, as it was difficult to acquire funds when it is needed.
Dr Chan, who was moved to tears while speaking, decried the situation where most countries are undergoing yet another pandemic in the face of so many health issues and economic meltdown.
While calling for a collective pool of support and funds to assist affected countries, she said “no developing country should be allowed to face this pandemic alone; we must as a continent support each other to fight this”.
She pointed out that the vaccines which are still undergoing clinical trials would soon be ready; advising that countries must be on alert to treat immediately it is diagnosed “because it is a tricky situation”.
Also speaking at the session, Nigeria’s Health Minister, Professor Babatunde Osotimehin, expressed grave concern over the non availability of vaccines needed in African countries, saying it was a challenge which the continent could not handle.
The minister, however, challenged WHO to ensure that Africa is given first priority whenever the vaccines are available; due to the peculiar circumstances that surrounds the system.
Friday, October 2, 2009
Minister Advocates New health Admin in Africa
As part of a new global initiative to meet the basic health needs of the people by various governments in Africa, Nigeria’s Health Minister, Professor Babatunde Osotimehin has advocated for the domestication of the new ‘Health District’ strategy of health administration in the region.
Professor Osotimehin made this call in Kigali, Rwanda when he chaired the Roundtable discussion on Sharing Best Practices in Strengthening Local or District Health Systems during the 59th Regional Committee meeting of the World Health Organization (WHO) in Kigali, Rwanda.
The session received presentations from the Health Ministers of Ghana, Burkina Faso, Rwanda and Uganda.
Professor Osotimehin emphasized that meeting the basic health needs of the people requires government to define policies and ensure their successful implementation at local or district level.
A ‘health district’ he posited, refers to a clearly defined administrative area covering a population at which some form of local government or administration takes over many responsibilities from central government departments.
The minister added that the concept of District Health System, widely promoted by WHO is the most important level for improving efficiency and responding to local health priorities and demands with focus on high impact health interventions.
The district, he reiterated is in a better position to address local challenges through seizing local opportunities and responding to people’s health needs.
The roundtable which would enable countries to share experiences and lessons learned in strengthening their local or district health systems to scale up essential health interventions, when domesticated, would have the potential of being replicated or adapted in other countries in the region.
Professor Osotimehin made this call in Kigali, Rwanda when he chaired the Roundtable discussion on Sharing Best Practices in Strengthening Local or District Health Systems during the 59th Regional Committee meeting of the World Health Organization (WHO) in Kigali, Rwanda.
The session received presentations from the Health Ministers of Ghana, Burkina Faso, Rwanda and Uganda.
Professor Osotimehin emphasized that meeting the basic health needs of the people requires government to define policies and ensure their successful implementation at local or district level.
A ‘health district’ he posited, refers to a clearly defined administrative area covering a population at which some form of local government or administration takes over many responsibilities from central government departments.
The minister added that the concept of District Health System, widely promoted by WHO is the most important level for improving efficiency and responding to local health priorities and demands with focus on high impact health interventions.
The district, he reiterated is in a better position to address local challenges through seizing local opportunities and responding to people’s health needs.
The roundtable which would enable countries to share experiences and lessons learned in strengthening their local or district health systems to scale up essential health interventions, when domesticated, would have the potential of being replicated or adapted in other countries in the region.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Osotimehin heads WHO Committee on Emergency Financing
Nigeria’s Minister of Health, Professor Babatunde Osotimehin, has been appointed to chair the committee on financing for Health Research and the establishment of a public health emergency fund for the African region.
Professor Osotimehin’s appointment at a recent World Health Organisation (WHO) African regional conference in Kigali, Rwanda, followed the unanimous calls for an urgent need to address the dwindling funding of the African Region by the WHO.
The minister’s Special Adviser on Communications, Mr. Niyi Ojuolape informed that the committee which comprises Health Ministers from Angola, Burundi, Cameroun, Ethiopia, Ivory Coast, Lesotho, Equatorial Guinea, South Africa and Nigeria is coming on the heels of the grave concern to the issues of maternal mortality and the H1N1 pandemic among others in the region.
According to him, these, among others “have been recognized as suffering from lack of a clear source of international funding like we have in the case of the Global Fund for AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria (GFATM)”.
Deliberating on the need for the Public Health Emergency Funds for Region and modalities for its establishment and implementation mechanisms, he said the Health Ministers emphasized the urgent need for this intervention following the sparse allocation of the regular annual budget of the African Regional Office that are designed for specific programmes and cannot be utilized for other programmes.
He stressed that the public health needs of the African Region and the current global financial meltdown makes the establishment inevitable as this would address the looming funding gap in coming years.
As part of its resolutions, the committee mandated articulate clear justifications for the funding drawing on specific example of contingencies that would necessitate the application of such funds to tackle issues like the H1N1 pandemic and AAVP.
The committee also considered that in establishing the fund, there should be flexibility in determining which programmes areas the funds could be utilized for and the percentage of the fund that could be committed to a specific programme.
This, the minister’s aide said was in recognition of the fact that public health priorities change over time. It was understood that the fund should basically constitute additional funding for targeted priority areas.
The fund, it was agreed would be developed based on voluntary
Professor Osotimehin’s appointment at a recent World Health Organisation (WHO) African regional conference in Kigali, Rwanda, followed the unanimous calls for an urgent need to address the dwindling funding of the African Region by the WHO.
The minister’s Special Adviser on Communications, Mr. Niyi Ojuolape informed that the committee which comprises Health Ministers from Angola, Burundi, Cameroun, Ethiopia, Ivory Coast, Lesotho, Equatorial Guinea, South Africa and Nigeria is coming on the heels of the grave concern to the issues of maternal mortality and the H1N1 pandemic among others in the region.
According to him, these, among others “have been recognized as suffering from lack of a clear source of international funding like we have in the case of the Global Fund for AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria (GFATM)”.
Deliberating on the need for the Public Health Emergency Funds for Region and modalities for its establishment and implementation mechanisms, he said the Health Ministers emphasized the urgent need for this intervention following the sparse allocation of the regular annual budget of the African Regional Office that are designed for specific programmes and cannot be utilized for other programmes.
He stressed that the public health needs of the African Region and the current global financial meltdown makes the establishment inevitable as this would address the looming funding gap in coming years.
As part of its resolutions, the committee mandated articulate clear justifications for the funding drawing on specific example of contingencies that would necessitate the application of such funds to tackle issues like the H1N1 pandemic and AAVP.
The committee also considered that in establishing the fund, there should be flexibility in determining which programmes areas the funds could be utilized for and the percentage of the fund that could be committed to a specific programme.
This, the minister’s aide said was in recognition of the fact that public health priorities change over time. It was understood that the fund should basically constitute additional funding for targeted priority areas.
The fund, it was agreed would be developed based on voluntary
Friday, September 25, 2009
Presidential Health Summit holds in Oct –Osotimehin
The Minister of Health, Professor Babatunde Osotimehin has disclosed that a Presidential Summit on Health would be held in October as part of the Federal Government’s efforts to improve the health care system.
Professor Osotimehin also informed that the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua’s administration had concluded plans to upgrade four teaching hospitals to international standard before the end of this year.
Speaking at the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Forum in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory recently, the minister added that the government would also upgrade seven specialist hospitals in Lagos, Kano, Kaduna, Enugu and Abeokuta respectively.
He listed the four hospitals that would be upgraded to first class facilities as the National Hospital, Abuja; University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan; Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH), Zaria and the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Enugu.
Similarly, Professor Osotimehin said the Federal Executive Council had approved the provision of new technologies for various hospitals to upgrade them in the country, including the National Orthopaedic Hospitals in Igbobi, Lagos and Dala in Kano respectively.
The minister explained that the government’s efforts were aimed at building people’s confidence in the nation’s hospitals and reduces their travelling abroad for medical treatment.
According to him, travelling overseas for medical treatment by Nigerians was not solution to the country’s health care problems.
Professor Osotimehin who maintained that many Nigerian hospitals now have facilities for the treatment of most illness and diseases commonly referred abroad, stressed the need to increase the awareness about the facilities for the benefit of the people.
He also informed that the Federal Government was “devoting resources to building human capacity to do these things”, adding that “it is not enough for you
Professor Osotimehin also informed that the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua’s administration had concluded plans to upgrade four teaching hospitals to international standard before the end of this year.
Speaking at the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Forum in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory recently, the minister added that the government would also upgrade seven specialist hospitals in Lagos, Kano, Kaduna, Enugu and Abeokuta respectively.
He listed the four hospitals that would be upgraded to first class facilities as the National Hospital, Abuja; University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan; Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH), Zaria and the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Enugu.
Similarly, Professor Osotimehin said the Federal Executive Council had approved the provision of new technologies for various hospitals to upgrade them in the country, including the National Orthopaedic Hospitals in Igbobi, Lagos and Dala in Kano respectively.
The minister explained that the government’s efforts were aimed at building people’s confidence in the nation’s hospitals and reduces their travelling abroad for medical treatment.
According to him, travelling overseas for medical treatment by Nigerians was not solution to the country’s health care problems.
Professor Osotimehin who maintained that many Nigerian hospitals now have facilities for the treatment of most illness and diseases commonly referred abroad, stressed the need to increase the awareness about the facilities for the benefit of the people.
He also informed that the Federal Government was “devoting resources to building human capacity to do these things”, adding that “it is not enough for you
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Swine flu: FG advises Muslim pilgrims
The Federal Government has advised intending pilgrims to this year’s Hajj “to be careful and take preventive measures against swine flu so that they do not get infected”.
Health Minister, Professor Babatunde Osotimehin, while speaking at the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Forum in Abuja recently, expressed the government’s concern on the disease, but assured that the present administration would continue to improve the health care services.
According to him, the Federal Ministry of Health was working the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and the Embassy of Saudi Arabia to provide information about swine flu for the pilgrims to avoid infection.
“As we go into the Hajj season, we are worried about the large numbers as swine flu is transmitted very easily when people gather together.
“But if they do get infected, we are also working with the medical team, both at the state and federal, that will go with them so that they can be prepared to look after them if any of them falls sick.
“Beyond that, we are also going to wait to receive them because you can actually catch it and on your return, you then infect many more people. At the reception site, we give them adequate education and treatment”, Professor Osotimehin explained.
The Saudi Arabian authorities had recently reported to have demanded that all pilgrims must be immunized against the swine flu before being allowed to perform this year’s Hajj in their country.
But the minister, while reacting to the development, said vaccines for the disease were not yet available in Africa, appealing to the World Health Organisation (WHO) to give the continent first priority whenever they are made available.
On polio, Professor Osotimehin said the ministry was working with traditional rulers to rid Nigeria of the disease, pointing out that “we have seen a great difference in terms of the immunization of children in our communities”.
“We have been working with the Sultan of Sokoto who is extremely helpful; we have set up a committee of 17 to 19 Emirs in the North who are working with us as a task force to eliminate polio and to also establish primary health care centres”, the minister explained.
Health Minister, Professor Babatunde Osotimehin, while speaking at the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Forum in Abuja recently, expressed the government’s concern on the disease, but assured that the present administration would continue to improve the health care services.
According to him, the Federal Ministry of Health was working the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and the Embassy of Saudi Arabia to provide information about swine flu for the pilgrims to avoid infection.
“As we go into the Hajj season, we are worried about the large numbers as swine flu is transmitted very easily when people gather together.
“But if they do get infected, we are also working with the medical team, both at the state and federal, that will go with them so that they can be prepared to look after them if any of them falls sick.
“Beyond that, we are also going to wait to receive them because you can actually catch it and on your return, you then infect many more people. At the reception site, we give them adequate education and treatment”, Professor Osotimehin explained.
The Saudi Arabian authorities had recently reported to have demanded that all pilgrims must be immunized against the swine flu before being allowed to perform this year’s Hajj in their country.
But the minister, while reacting to the development, said vaccines for the disease were not yet available in Africa, appealing to the World Health Organisation (WHO) to give the continent first priority whenever they are made available.
On polio, Professor Osotimehin said the ministry was working with traditional rulers to rid Nigeria of the disease, pointing out that “we have seen a great difference in terms of the immunization of children in our communities”.
“We have been working with the Sultan of Sokoto who is extremely helpful; we have set up a committee of 17 to 19 Emirs in the North who are working with us as a task force to eliminate polio and to also establish primary health care centres”, the minister explained.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Osotimehin urges unity in health institutions
Chairmen and members of the newly inaugurated boards of federal tertiary health institutions, regulatory bodies and agencies, have been charged to establish cordial relationship with the executives of their various parastatals.
The Minister of Health, Professor Babatunde Osotimehin, while inaugurating the boards in Abuja recently, said this would help a lot in good health care delivery services in the country.
Professor Osotimehin urged them to add value to their various institutions and ensure that every personnel were alive to their responsibilities so as to compliment government’s efforts at improving the health sector.
The minister who frowned at the lackadaisical attitude of many health personnel, said “the professionals should do what they are expected to do and be rewarded”, adding that the government would not relent in providing quality health care services to Nigerians.
“We have a Health Bill that will make a difference, because 80 per cent of people need primary health care and not the Teaching Hospitals. Without healthy population, the economy cannot move forward and this is part of the Seven-Point Agenda of the President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua’s administration”, he said.
Speaking in the same vein, the Chairman, Senate Committee on Health, Dr. Iyabo Obasanjo- Bello described the nation’s health system as terrible, but assured that the National Assembly would not relent in its support for all relevant stakeholders in the health sector.
While advocating more funds for the health sector, she expressed optimism that the Health Bill, when signed into law, would definitely make the difference in the health sector.
Earlier in an opening remark, the Minister of State for Health, Dr. Aliyu Idi Hong, had lamented the dwindling resources of the health sector despite the increasing demands and , therefore, charged the new boards to give priority to Internally Generated Revenue(IGR) for optimal performances.
Dr. Hong who reminded the boards’ chairmen and members of government’s zero tolerance for corruption, warned them against fraudulent practices, adding that they should make transparency and accountability their watchword.
He also stressed the need to correct the alleged immoral behaviours among the health personnel whom he advised should imbibe attitudinal change towards their jobs.
The Minister of Health, Professor Babatunde Osotimehin, while inaugurating the boards in Abuja recently, said this would help a lot in good health care delivery services in the country.
Professor Osotimehin urged them to add value to their various institutions and ensure that every personnel were alive to their responsibilities so as to compliment government’s efforts at improving the health sector.
The minister who frowned at the lackadaisical attitude of many health personnel, said “the professionals should do what they are expected to do and be rewarded”, adding that the government would not relent in providing quality health care services to Nigerians.
“We have a Health Bill that will make a difference, because 80 per cent of people need primary health care and not the Teaching Hospitals. Without healthy population, the economy cannot move forward and this is part of the Seven-Point Agenda of the President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua’s administration”, he said.
Speaking in the same vein, the Chairman, Senate Committee on Health, Dr. Iyabo Obasanjo- Bello described the nation’s health system as terrible, but assured that the National Assembly would not relent in its support for all relevant stakeholders in the health sector.
While advocating more funds for the health sector, she expressed optimism that the Health Bill, when signed into law, would definitely make the difference in the health sector.
Earlier in an opening remark, the Minister of State for Health, Dr. Aliyu Idi Hong, had lamented the dwindling resources of the health sector despite the increasing demands and , therefore, charged the new boards to give priority to Internally Generated Revenue(IGR) for optimal performances.
Dr. Hong who reminded the boards’ chairmen and members of government’s zero tolerance for corruption, warned them against fraudulent practices, adding that they should make transparency and accountability their watchword.
He also stressed the need to correct the alleged immoral behaviours among the health personnel whom he advised should imbibe attitudinal change towards their jobs.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
FG to employ 10,000 midwives
No fewer than 10,000 midwives are to be employed by the Federal Government for rural health centres as part of the present administration’s efforts to promote primary health care in the country.
The Minister of Health, Professor Babatunde Osotimehin who announced this in a chat with newsmen in Lagos, said 2,000 of them had already been interviewed and would soon be deployed to their various duty posts nationwide.
Osotimehin also informed that the Federal Government, in collaboration with the 19 northern states, was planning a scheme through which many people would be trained as auxiliaries to assist the midwives in effective health care delivery services.
The auxiliaries, who he said must hold minimum of four credits including Biology at their O’ Level, would work in the rural parts of the north under the supervision of the midwives.
Similarly, Osotimehin disclosed that health professionals among the youth corps members would henceforth be made to serve in the rural areas where their services are needed most, saying he had discussed the plan with his counterpart in the Youth Development Ministry, Mr. Olasunkanmi Akinlabi.
According to the minister, these were part of the new health plan to bring primary health care to the doorsteps of rural dwellers so that they could benefit from the health programmes of the government.
“We are going to continue with routine immunization for children with malaria, chest infection and others. We are also making sure that women have access to antenatal clinics, facilities for their delivery, health education, good water supply, housing and all others that make primary health care services”, he assured.
Osotimehin added that government would soon make a policy on the ongoing community health insurance, which he described as the most important for health care services in children’s malaria and chest infection.
The minister further informed: “We are going to get 60 million treated beds nets distributed to Nigerians at two per household. If we do what we have to do, we can cut mortality rate to 50 per cent by the end of 2010 or early 2011”.
He also announced government’s decision to further upgrade the National Hospital, Abuja; University College Hospital, Ibadan; Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Zaria and the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu to international standard and for the treatment of all cases commonly referred abroad.
The Minister of Health, Professor Babatunde Osotimehin who announced this in a chat with newsmen in Lagos, said 2,000 of them had already been interviewed and would soon be deployed to their various duty posts nationwide.
Osotimehin also informed that the Federal Government, in collaboration with the 19 northern states, was planning a scheme through which many people would be trained as auxiliaries to assist the midwives in effective health care delivery services.
The auxiliaries, who he said must hold minimum of four credits including Biology at their O’ Level, would work in the rural parts of the north under the supervision of the midwives.
Similarly, Osotimehin disclosed that health professionals among the youth corps members would henceforth be made to serve in the rural areas where their services are needed most, saying he had discussed the plan with his counterpart in the Youth Development Ministry, Mr. Olasunkanmi Akinlabi.
According to the minister, these were part of the new health plan to bring primary health care to the doorsteps of rural dwellers so that they could benefit from the health programmes of the government.
“We are going to continue with routine immunization for children with malaria, chest infection and others. We are also making sure that women have access to antenatal clinics, facilities for their delivery, health education, good water supply, housing and all others that make primary health care services”, he assured.
Osotimehin added that government would soon make a policy on the ongoing community health insurance, which he described as the most important for health care services in children’s malaria and chest infection.
The minister further informed: “We are going to get 60 million treated beds nets distributed to Nigerians at two per household. If we do what we have to do, we can cut mortality rate to 50 per cent by the end of 2010 or early 2011”.
He also announced government’s decision to further upgrade the National Hospital, Abuja; University College Hospital, Ibadan; Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Zaria and the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu to international standard and for the treatment of all cases commonly referred abroad.
Monday, August 24, 2009
MINISTER ASSURES NIGERIANS ON VVF, MATERNAL MORTALITY
Health Minister, Professor Babatunde Osotimehin, on recently, assured that the Federal Government would continue to educate Nigerians on the need to avoid Vesico Vagina Fistula [VVF] and establish responsible parenthood.
T o achieve this, the minister said the Ministry of Health would build on the existing cordial relationship with all relevant stakeholders in the health sector.
Professor Osotimehin, while receiving a team of German and Austrian Rotarians in his office in Abuja, commended the Rotary International for bringing succour to Nigerians on VVF and maternal mortality.
The minister, who identified lack of quality assurance of obstetric care as a major factor for the terrible consequences for both child and mother, advocated the involvement of health professionals in the ministry and other bodies to achieve the feat.
According to him:“Many parts of Nigeria don’t have skilled attendants and we need to deploy them urgently, because they are the ones who will do the domiciliary jobs”.
Speaking earlier, the Project Coordinator and Past Governor of Rotary International, Professor Robert Zinser, had called for the training of health personnel in Fistula repair and post-operative care in all Nigerian Teaching Hospitals.
Professor Zinser, particularly solicited the support of the ministry and integration of state officials for the sustainability of the project tagged: “Improvement of Maternal Health- Prevention and Treatment of Obstetric Fistula”.
He said concerted efforts of all stakeholders on creating awareness and data collection in hospitals, would go a long way in reducing maternal mortality in the country.
T o achieve this, the minister said the Ministry of Health would build on the existing cordial relationship with all relevant stakeholders in the health sector.
Professor Osotimehin, while receiving a team of German and Austrian Rotarians in his office in Abuja, commended the Rotary International for bringing succour to Nigerians on VVF and maternal mortality.
The minister, who identified lack of quality assurance of obstetric care as a major factor for the terrible consequences for both child and mother, advocated the involvement of health professionals in the ministry and other bodies to achieve the feat.
According to him:“Many parts of Nigeria don’t have skilled attendants and we need to deploy them urgently, because they are the ones who will do the domiciliary jobs”.
Speaking earlier, the Project Coordinator and Past Governor of Rotary International, Professor Robert Zinser, had called for the training of health personnel in Fistula repair and post-operative care in all Nigerian Teaching Hospitals.
Professor Zinser, particularly solicited the support of the ministry and integration of state officials for the sustainability of the project tagged: “Improvement of Maternal Health- Prevention and Treatment of Obstetric Fistula”.
He said concerted efforts of all stakeholders on creating awareness and data collection in hospitals, would go a long way in reducing maternal mortality in the country.
FISTULA PROGRAMME WILL BEGIN IN AUGUST -Osotimehin
Determined to reduce Vesico Vagina Fistula [VVF] to the barest minimum, the Federal Government said it would begin Fistula Programme in the country by the middle of August.
VVF is a disease that leaves affected women, especially the young ones, with chronic incontinence and can lead to bladder and kidney infections.
The Minister of Health, Professor Babatunde Osotimehin disclosed this recently, when the management of the United Nations Population Fund [UNFPA] led by its Resident Representative in Nigeria, Dr Lawson Agatha, visited him in Abuja.
Professor Osotimehin who observed that the cordial working relationship between the Ministry of Health and UNFPA, had led to effective performances in the past, identified maternal mortality as the new frontier to be addressed.
To consolidate on the past achievements, the minister pledged the continued support of the ministry to UNFPA towards treating Obstetric Fistula and reducing maternal and child mortality in the country.
The Country Representative of UNFPA, Dr Lawson Agatha, had earlier informed that out of one million women with VVF, only about 3,000 are being treated annually.
Dr Lawson, who disclosed that UNFPA had secured a parcel of land to build Fistula Centre in Abuja, stressed the need to increase the treatment of VVF patients to about 10,000 every year.
While calling on the Federal Government for assistance in funding the centre, she also expressed believe that adequate condoms for protective sex would go a long way in improving reproductive health and checking HIV/AIDS among Nigerians.
VVF is a disease that leaves affected women, especially the young ones, with chronic incontinence and can lead to bladder and kidney infections.
The Minister of Health, Professor Babatunde Osotimehin disclosed this recently, when the management of the United Nations Population Fund [UNFPA] led by its Resident Representative in Nigeria, Dr Lawson Agatha, visited him in Abuja.
Professor Osotimehin who observed that the cordial working relationship between the Ministry of Health and UNFPA, had led to effective performances in the past, identified maternal mortality as the new frontier to be addressed.
To consolidate on the past achievements, the minister pledged the continued support of the ministry to UNFPA towards treating Obstetric Fistula and reducing maternal and child mortality in the country.
The Country Representative of UNFPA, Dr Lawson Agatha, had earlier informed that out of one million women with VVF, only about 3,000 are being treated annually.
Dr Lawson, who disclosed that UNFPA had secured a parcel of land to build Fistula Centre in Abuja, stressed the need to increase the treatment of VVF patients to about 10,000 every year.
While calling on the Federal Government for assistance in funding the centre, she also expressed believe that adequate condoms for protective sex would go a long way in improving reproductive health and checking HIV/AIDS among Nigerians.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Why Doctors go on strike?
It was 7: 45am; I dropped my daughter off at school and drove to my office. By 8: 05 I was at my desk, ready to work. By 10: 43am I was called in for a meeting, two minutes after I settled down for the meeting, I received a call from my daughter’s school; she had just been rushed to the hospital.
Shock, fear and sweat gripped me all at once as I drove to the hospital; Doofan my only daughter, I saw her school bus outside, two teachers, the headmistress and the proprietress. Then I saw my only daughter lying down on a bench bleeding from the mouth. I was told she fell from the stairs in her school. As I held her hand, she cried, “Daddy, hold me I don’t want to die, where is Mummy… I don’t want to die.” Then I looked round and shouted at the nurse, where is the doctor on duty? She looked at me and kept drinking her tea. Where is the Doctor on duty I shouted again! And she pointed at the corridor, there I saw the Doctor holding the hands of a nurse chatting!
I walked up to the man whom the nurse had pointed at and begged almost in tears, my daughter needs your attention I pleaded. And he said “we are on strike”. I rushed back to stay with my daughter as I heard my wife’s voice wailing, the school had called her too. She ran past me and walked up to the doctor begging in tears, help my daughter she said. And again, the Doctor said, “all Doctors are on strike”.
I waited impatiently for the doctor to finish chatting and before I knew what was happening, I saw the doctor holding hands with the nurse, walking away.
I shook my head and tears rolled down my eyes, I walked back to my wife to console her.
As I wondered which hospital to take my daughter, a man in blue uniform walked up to me and said, “Oga, maybe you should go to Dr. Dike’s hospital, it is down the road.
He gave me the description and I drove my family to the hospital, my daughter was still bleeding. As I got to the hospital, I was asked by a polite nurse to hold on for the doctor, that he was on his way to the hospital. She gave us a private room and started what seemed like first aid treatment.
Within 15 minutes, the doctor arrived. He walked up to my wife and I and apologized for his lateness. I was speechless as I watched him attend to my daughter. He was nice, polite, and ready to give her the best care. He was the same man I had seen earlier who was too busy chatting with a nurse to attend to me. He is Dr. Dike!
I watched him give my daughter the best medical attention. The polite nurse beckoned on me and she gave me the bill. Alas! The figure on it was eight times higher than what I would have paid at the government hospital. I left and drove back to my office…
As drove I bought a copy of Thisday newspaper on Monday, June 22, 2009 I flipped through the pages when I got back to my office, searching for my favourite page, business page. Just before I got to the page, an interesting caption caught my attention on page nine “FG Pleads for Understanding over NMA’s Demand”.
My Point:
Are these doctors going on strike so Nigerians can patronise their expensive private clinics? Are they messing up the image of the hospitals by going on strike so they can get patronage at their private hospitals? These are questions begging for answers. If what I read in Thisday is true and the Minister of Health, Prof. Babatunde Osotimehin is putting all things in place for them and they still can’t put up their acts together and get the best out of their jobs, then it is just unfortunate, very unfortunate.
The last paragraph of the Thisday report states that “The agitation for improved wages and benefits has been on for over 11 years”. So, does it mean if Osotimehin gives them all they are asking for they will give their best to their work or find another reason to go on strike?
Shock, fear and sweat gripped me all at once as I drove to the hospital; Doofan my only daughter, I saw her school bus outside, two teachers, the headmistress and the proprietress. Then I saw my only daughter lying down on a bench bleeding from the mouth. I was told she fell from the stairs in her school. As I held her hand, she cried, “Daddy, hold me I don’t want to die, where is Mummy… I don’t want to die.” Then I looked round and shouted at the nurse, where is the doctor on duty? She looked at me and kept drinking her tea. Where is the Doctor on duty I shouted again! And she pointed at the corridor, there I saw the Doctor holding the hands of a nurse chatting!
I walked up to the man whom the nurse had pointed at and begged almost in tears, my daughter needs your attention I pleaded. And he said “we are on strike”. I rushed back to stay with my daughter as I heard my wife’s voice wailing, the school had called her too. She ran past me and walked up to the doctor begging in tears, help my daughter she said. And again, the Doctor said, “all Doctors are on strike”.
I waited impatiently for the doctor to finish chatting and before I knew what was happening, I saw the doctor holding hands with the nurse, walking away.
I shook my head and tears rolled down my eyes, I walked back to my wife to console her.
As I wondered which hospital to take my daughter, a man in blue uniform walked up to me and said, “Oga, maybe you should go to Dr. Dike’s hospital, it is down the road.
He gave me the description and I drove my family to the hospital, my daughter was still bleeding. As I got to the hospital, I was asked by a polite nurse to hold on for the doctor, that he was on his way to the hospital. She gave us a private room and started what seemed like first aid treatment.
Within 15 minutes, the doctor arrived. He walked up to my wife and I and apologized for his lateness. I was speechless as I watched him attend to my daughter. He was nice, polite, and ready to give her the best care. He was the same man I had seen earlier who was too busy chatting with a nurse to attend to me. He is Dr. Dike!
I watched him give my daughter the best medical attention. The polite nurse beckoned on me and she gave me the bill. Alas! The figure on it was eight times higher than what I would have paid at the government hospital. I left and drove back to my office…
As drove I bought a copy of Thisday newspaper on Monday, June 22, 2009 I flipped through the pages when I got back to my office, searching for my favourite page, business page. Just before I got to the page, an interesting caption caught my attention on page nine “FG Pleads for Understanding over NMA’s Demand”.
My Point:
Are these doctors going on strike so Nigerians can patronise their expensive private clinics? Are they messing up the image of the hospitals by going on strike so they can get patronage at their private hospitals? These are questions begging for answers. If what I read in Thisday is true and the Minister of Health, Prof. Babatunde Osotimehin is putting all things in place for them and they still can’t put up their acts together and get the best out of their jobs, then it is just unfortunate, very unfortunate.
The last paragraph of the Thisday report states that “The agitation for improved wages and benefits has been on for over 11 years”. So, does it mean if Osotimehin gives them all they are asking for they will give their best to their work or find another reason to go on strike?
Monday, June 15, 2009
SPEECH DELIEVERD BY THE HONOURABLE MINISTER OF HEALTH,PROFESSOR BABATUNDE OSOTIMEHIN,OON ON THE OCCASION OF THE 2009 WORLD BLOOD DAY PRESS BRIEFING HELD ON FRIDAY 12TH JUNE 2009
I am indeed very happy to be amongst you today, on the occasion of the 2009 World Blood Donor Day celebration.
Every year since 2004, the 14th of June has been set aside by the World Health Assembly to recognize and thank those who donate blood for altruistic reasons. This date has been chosen in Honour of Karl Landsteiner who discovered the ABO blood groups in 1907. He won a Nobel Prize for the scientific feat, which has made blood transfusions a key part of Modern medicine since 1930.
It is well documented that there is higher risk of transmitting infections when blood and blood products have been obtained from paid donors. It is for this reason that the World Health Assembly passed resolution 28.72 of 1975,which recommends that member states, including Nigeria ,adopt a well-organised centrally coordinated blood transfusion service with quality systems based on 100% voluntary non-remunerated blood donation.
Testifying of all units of blood donated is essential. However testing alone is not sufficient to prevent transmission of infectious agents through blood transfusions because of the possibility of laboratory error’s , and the window period of infection.
Evidence from around the world demonstrates that patients who receives blood from voluntary non-remunerated donors who give blood regularly, are at the lowest risk of acquiring blood-borne infections through transfusion, because these donor’s are motivated by altruism and have no reason to conceal any reason why their blood may be unsafe.
Millions of lives are saved each year through blood transfusion, and in many countries, including Nigeria, many people still die due to an inadequate supply of blood and blood products. This has a disproportionate impact on women as a consequence of pregnancy-related complications, children due to malnutrition,Malaria and severe life-threatening anaemia, trauma victims, and most especially the poor and disadvantaged.
One of the strategies for ensuring the safety, quality and availability of adequate blood supplies is by the collection of blood from voluntary non-remunerated donors only
Around the world, millions of people owe their lives to individuals they will never meet, people who donate their blood to help others. But millions still cannot get safe blood when they need it. Today provides a unique opportunity to thank those special people that have voluntarily given their blood to save lives. We can also raise awareness about the need for more support from good people of Nigeria to enlist as voluntary non-remunerated blood donors.
The theme for this year’s World Blood Donor Day celebration is “Achieving 100% Non-Remunerated Donation of Blood Products”. It places more emphasis on improving the safety and sufficiency of blood supply. As more and more countries achieve the goal of 100% voluntary non-remunerated blood donation, there is growing appreciation of the vital roles of voluntary donors who give blood on foundation a sustainable National blood supply that is sufficient to meet the needs of all patients requiring blood and blood components.
Through the commitment of the people and the government of both the United States of America and Nigeria, there are currently 12 operational National Blood Transfusion Centre’s spread over the 6 geo-political zones of Nigeria, up from the demonstration Blood Center pioneered by technical partners to the NBTS, Safe Blood for Africa Foundation in 2004. It is anticipated that by the end of 2009,5 additional centre’s would have been established, bringing the total to 17. The NBTS is committed to establishing one National Blood centre in each of the 36 states by 2015, in the hope that the states will pick up the challenge and ensure that modalities are put in place to make safe blood accessible to all communities within their catchment areas. The successful implementation of a centrally coordinated blood service through the political will of the various levels of government, will replace the hitherto fragmented and unregulated blood service characterized by Paid of family replacement blood donors, the safety and quality of whose blood and blood products is not assured.
The National Blood Transfusion Service has the responsibility of providing safe blood and blood products available to all who may need it. The NBTS will also regulate other blood banks and related service providers in the country as stated in the National Blood Policy, in order to guarantee the quality of blood and blood products from those facilities. Operational guidelines for blood transfusion practice in Nigeria have also been developed, to ensure operational consistency at all levels of the blood service.
Blood is a scarce and precious resource. In order to minimize its unnecessary prescription and administration, the NBTS also promotes the appropriate clinical use of blood products, which also reduces the incidence of adverse reactions. Hospitals are actively supported to establish Transfusion Committees.
As the demand for blood keeps increasing, Nigeria strives to make blood readily available by increasing blood collection from voluntary non-remunerated blood donors. In order to meet these needs, I call an all you special people gathered here today to enlist as voluntary blood donors in support of our quest for community participation. Regular donation of blood – three times per year for women, and four for men – will help us maintain a stable pool of safe blood units, and expand our blood component programme to achieve self-sufficiency.
I will not conclude without acknowledging the significant role of the mass media in our collective efforts at increasing and sustaining the pool of voluntary unpaid donors. Ladies and gentlemen of the press. I implore you to create the necessary awareness about voluntary blood donation so that those that have been skeptical thus far about voluntary unpaid blood donation would improve their knowledge and therefore change their beliefs and behavior and join those gift of blood continues to save lives.
Thank you for being present at this occasion. As you leave here, please pass on the message, safe blood saves lives. Donate blood and save lives.
Thank you and may God bless us all
I am indeed very happy to be amongst you today, on the occasion of the 2009 World Blood Donor Day celebration.
Every year since 2004, the 14th of June has been set aside by the World Health Assembly to recognize and thank those who donate blood for altruistic reasons. This date has been chosen in Honour of Karl Landsteiner who discovered the ABO blood groups in 1907. He won a Nobel Prize for the scientific feat, which has made blood transfusions a key part of Modern medicine since 1930.
It is well documented that there is higher risk of transmitting infections when blood and blood products have been obtained from paid donors. It is for this reason that the World Health Assembly passed resolution 28.72 of 1975,which recommends that member states, including Nigeria ,adopt a well-organised centrally coordinated blood transfusion service with quality systems based on 100% voluntary non-remunerated blood donation.
Testifying of all units of blood donated is essential. However testing alone is not sufficient to prevent transmission of infectious agents through blood transfusions because of the possibility of laboratory error’s , and the window period of infection.
Evidence from around the world demonstrates that patients who receives blood from voluntary non-remunerated donors who give blood regularly, are at the lowest risk of acquiring blood-borne infections through transfusion, because these donor’s are motivated by altruism and have no reason to conceal any reason why their blood may be unsafe.
Millions of lives are saved each year through blood transfusion, and in many countries, including Nigeria, many people still die due to an inadequate supply of blood and blood products. This has a disproportionate impact on women as a consequence of pregnancy-related complications, children due to malnutrition,Malaria and severe life-threatening anaemia, trauma victims, and most especially the poor and disadvantaged.
One of the strategies for ensuring the safety, quality and availability of adequate blood supplies is by the collection of blood from voluntary non-remunerated donors only
Around the world, millions of people owe their lives to individuals they will never meet, people who donate their blood to help others. But millions still cannot get safe blood when they need it. Today provides a unique opportunity to thank those special people that have voluntarily given their blood to save lives. We can also raise awareness about the need for more support from good people of Nigeria to enlist as voluntary non-remunerated blood donors.
The theme for this year’s World Blood Donor Day celebration is “Achieving 100% Non-Remunerated Donation of Blood Products”. It places more emphasis on improving the safety and sufficiency of blood supply. As more and more countries achieve the goal of 100% voluntary non-remunerated blood donation, there is growing appreciation of the vital roles of voluntary donors who give blood on foundation a sustainable National blood supply that is sufficient to meet the needs of all patients requiring blood and blood components.
Through the commitment of the people and the government of both the United States of America and Nigeria, there are currently 12 operational National Blood Transfusion Centre’s spread over the 6 geo-political zones of Nigeria, up from the demonstration Blood Center pioneered by technical partners to the NBTS, Safe Blood for Africa Foundation in 2004. It is anticipated that by the end of 2009,5 additional centre’s would have been established, bringing the total to 17. The NBTS is committed to establishing one National Blood centre in each of the 36 states by 2015, in the hope that the states will pick up the challenge and ensure that modalities are put in place to make safe blood accessible to all communities within their catchment areas. The successful implementation of a centrally coordinated blood service through the political will of the various levels of government, will replace the hitherto fragmented and unregulated blood service characterized by Paid of family replacement blood donors, the safety and quality of whose blood and blood products is not assured.
The National Blood Transfusion Service has the responsibility of providing safe blood and blood products available to all who may need it. The NBTS will also regulate other blood banks and related service providers in the country as stated in the National Blood Policy, in order to guarantee the quality of blood and blood products from those facilities. Operational guidelines for blood transfusion practice in Nigeria have also been developed, to ensure operational consistency at all levels of the blood service.
Blood is a scarce and precious resource. In order to minimize its unnecessary prescription and administration, the NBTS also promotes the appropriate clinical use of blood products, which also reduces the incidence of adverse reactions. Hospitals are actively supported to establish Transfusion Committees.
As the demand for blood keeps increasing, Nigeria strives to make blood readily available by increasing blood collection from voluntary non-remunerated blood donors. In order to meet these needs, I call an all you special people gathered here today to enlist as voluntary blood donors in support of our quest for community participation. Regular donation of blood – three times per year for women, and four for men – will help us maintain a stable pool of safe blood units, and expand our blood component programme to achieve self-sufficiency.
I will not conclude without acknowledging the significant role of the mass media in our collective efforts at increasing and sustaining the pool of voluntary unpaid donors. Ladies and gentlemen of the press. I implore you to create the necessary awareness about voluntary blood donation so that those that have been skeptical thus far about voluntary unpaid blood donation would improve their knowledge and therefore change their beliefs and behavior and join those gift of blood continues to save lives.
Thank you for being present at this occasion. As you leave here, please pass on the message, safe blood saves lives. Donate blood and save lives.
Thank you and may God bless us all
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Our Health System: Matters Arising
By Babatunde Osotimehin, 06.05.2009
Our health situation has lately invited us to ponder on steps to take in initiating immediate and long term solution. Without sounding immodest, the leadership of the Health Ministry understands the urgency of our situation and is responding with its entire zeal, within the broader spirit of President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua administration’s promise of efficient service delivery.
We understand the recent threat of swine flu, and the subsisting presence of Lassa fever, cerebrospinal meningitis, and polio situation, amongst others. Overall, we are saying, it is important to improve our health care delivery system. In fact, our Primary Health Care system does need rejuvenation. We have been working at this, as it is important to focus on nearly every area of our health care system, not least so is maternal and child health. To bring about this improvement, I have said it elsewhere; it will need an alert from all tiers of government, particularly the state and the local. Resources would then have to be adequately provided, while human resources should not be lacking. Then the management of drugs and consumables have to be better than it is, apart from the institution of a good referral system. What should stop us from achieving these? Absolutely nothing really.
I say nothing if we are determined as a people. There is absolutely nothing that a collective will cannot make us achieve. By encouraging our health workers who labour across the length and breadth of the country, without being celebrated, we should have taken a significant step forward. Human resources galvanize. It drives processes to the desired level, and may be undermined only at our own peril. This cannot happen at a time we are even striving to accomplish a significant programme, which is the 7-point agenda of President Yar’Adua. We understand that the Nigerian health system and the health status of the citizens are experiencing a low rating from the estimation of the World Health Organisation. But like I have been saying, we can collectively increase our ranking.
On the part of the government, we are already providing the required energy in the system, through a repositioning of the environment and the leadership to enable the right contribution from all. Then we are seeking to improve our health service delivery not only via a holistic change in our Primary Health Care, but by strengthening referrals with secondary and tertiary institutions to reduce the disease burden that would then shore up the countries’ health status.
Besides, we are enhancing the financial resource mobilization through the expansion of the NHIS and other Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement. Then again, we are enhancing the coordinating role of the ministry and its interface with states and local governments, while also providing the much needed improvement in its overall performance. This is because the requisite human resources must be ready in all its right combination, just as the skewed distribution of workforce need to be dealt with. More than this, because one of the key weaknesses in the Nigeria’s health system is the lack of data to guide planning, a strengthened Health Management system is necessary to provide this needed data. Rest assured that the ministry is working on urgent steps to strengthen HMIS.
In the area of communication and public relations management, we are mobilizing and galvanizing public support for increased personal responsibility for health through utilization of preventive and health promotive services. The media is crucial in this role, which is why we are utilizing several media to ensure that timely and comprehensive evidence-based information about its activities are made available to build broad-based understanding of and foster acceptance and support for the new strategic agenda of the ministry and government.
Without any doubt, the above elements of our stewardship over the next 24 months or so are also being worked into the much broader and long term national strategic health development plan.
Importantly, we started the process of developing a costed National Health Investment Plan. At the same time, we were embarking on a parallel initiative, a follow-on programme to the Health Sector Reform Programme (2003-2007), as the health sector contribution to NEEDS2. This was just before NEEDS was re-christened by government as the National Development Plan (NDP).
The two initiatives: Health Investment Plan; and the Health Sector/NEEDS2 initiatives have now been harmonized into the preparation of a National Strategic Health Development Framework and Plan (NHSDP) process that is being led by the Federal Ministry of Health working with all the states, development partners, and non-state actors, amongst others. This process is currently being managed via the Health System Forum, and has attracted participation from many.
The NSHDP is aimed at a single country health plan, a single results framework, a single policy matrix and a costed plan that will be the basis for funding. There are also one single policy matrix; one costed plan that will be the basis for funding; one single mutual monitoring and reporting process; one single country-based appraisal and validation process for country health plan; one single fiduciary framework; benchmarks for government performance, benchmarks for development partner performance; agreement on aid modalities; and process for resolution of non-performance and disputes. These are the cross cutting principles of the IHP+ built on the Paris Declaration on Aids Effectiveness.
We recognize that domestic funding should make a significant contribution in meeting the challenges for Health-MDGs. Thus, the government has steadily improved on its funding support for Health-MDGs in recent years: N15 billion in 2008; and N22.5 billion proposed for 2009. We are internally challenged by issues of efficiency and in spending wisely and we are thus looking for technical assistance in this regards, especially in building capacity for power costing for Health-MDGs, and in innovative mechanisms that offer tremendous potential to save lives through new and creative solutions. Domestic funding alone is unlikely to meet all the challenges of funding Health-MDGs. We also remain concerned on whether or not we are making real progress in terms of the indicators.
Arguably, the greatest burden of disease in Nigeria is attributable to the index diseases of HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculoses (ATM), and the diseases are at the heart the Health-MDGs Global compact. As mentioned above, the level of resources, both from within and external, to fight these diseases has increased steadily.
However, the national response remains complex and confusing with multiple overlaps and poor coordination. Progress has been very slow. We certainly can do far more and we intend to do so. For this reason, a task force on ATM has been established, under my direct supervision, as part of a renewed spirited effort to ensure visible progress on Health-MDGs.
Membership of the task force are drawn from the Federal Ministry of Health, other Federal Ministries (National Planning, Ministry of Finance/Budget Office), and representative of state MOHs, members from cooperating partners active in ATM, representatives from civil society, and representatives from private sector bodies.
The committee has focal point persons from the Federal Ministry of Health to assist in both technical and administrative work of the committee. I shall be the Chairman, with the Honourable Minister of State for Health serving as Alternate Chairman and member of the committee. Importantly, we have since moved forward, and we are continuing in this trend. Constant review and determination as exemplified in the President Yar’Adua’s directive remain our top priority and we shall not shirk our responsibility in this respect. You can count on us.
• Prof. Osotimehin is Minister of Health.
Our health situation has lately invited us to ponder on steps to take in initiating immediate and long term solution. Without sounding immodest, the leadership of the Health Ministry understands the urgency of our situation and is responding with its entire zeal, within the broader spirit of President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua administration’s promise of efficient service delivery.
We understand the recent threat of swine flu, and the subsisting presence of Lassa fever, cerebrospinal meningitis, and polio situation, amongst others. Overall, we are saying, it is important to improve our health care delivery system. In fact, our Primary Health Care system does need rejuvenation. We have been working at this, as it is important to focus on nearly every area of our health care system, not least so is maternal and child health. To bring about this improvement, I have said it elsewhere; it will need an alert from all tiers of government, particularly the state and the local. Resources would then have to be adequately provided, while human resources should not be lacking. Then the management of drugs and consumables have to be better than it is, apart from the institution of a good referral system. What should stop us from achieving these? Absolutely nothing really.
I say nothing if we are determined as a people. There is absolutely nothing that a collective will cannot make us achieve. By encouraging our health workers who labour across the length and breadth of the country, without being celebrated, we should have taken a significant step forward. Human resources galvanize. It drives processes to the desired level, and may be undermined only at our own peril. This cannot happen at a time we are even striving to accomplish a significant programme, which is the 7-point agenda of President Yar’Adua. We understand that the Nigerian health system and the health status of the citizens are experiencing a low rating from the estimation of the World Health Organisation. But like I have been saying, we can collectively increase our ranking.
On the part of the government, we are already providing the required energy in the system, through a repositioning of the environment and the leadership to enable the right contribution from all. Then we are seeking to improve our health service delivery not only via a holistic change in our Primary Health Care, but by strengthening referrals with secondary and tertiary institutions to reduce the disease burden that would then shore up the countries’ health status.
Besides, we are enhancing the financial resource mobilization through the expansion of the NHIS and other Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement. Then again, we are enhancing the coordinating role of the ministry and its interface with states and local governments, while also providing the much needed improvement in its overall performance. This is because the requisite human resources must be ready in all its right combination, just as the skewed distribution of workforce need to be dealt with. More than this, because one of the key weaknesses in the Nigeria’s health system is the lack of data to guide planning, a strengthened Health Management system is necessary to provide this needed data. Rest assured that the ministry is working on urgent steps to strengthen HMIS.
In the area of communication and public relations management, we are mobilizing and galvanizing public support for increased personal responsibility for health through utilization of preventive and health promotive services. The media is crucial in this role, which is why we are utilizing several media to ensure that timely and comprehensive evidence-based information about its activities are made available to build broad-based understanding of and foster acceptance and support for the new strategic agenda of the ministry and government.
Without any doubt, the above elements of our stewardship over the next 24 months or so are also being worked into the much broader and long term national strategic health development plan.
Importantly, we started the process of developing a costed National Health Investment Plan. At the same time, we were embarking on a parallel initiative, a follow-on programme to the Health Sector Reform Programme (2003-2007), as the health sector contribution to NEEDS2. This was just before NEEDS was re-christened by government as the National Development Plan (NDP).
The two initiatives: Health Investment Plan; and the Health Sector/NEEDS2 initiatives have now been harmonized into the preparation of a National Strategic Health Development Framework and Plan (NHSDP) process that is being led by the Federal Ministry of Health working with all the states, development partners, and non-state actors, amongst others. This process is currently being managed via the Health System Forum, and has attracted participation from many.
The NSHDP is aimed at a single country health plan, a single results framework, a single policy matrix and a costed plan that will be the basis for funding. There are also one single policy matrix; one costed plan that will be the basis for funding; one single mutual monitoring and reporting process; one single country-based appraisal and validation process for country health plan; one single fiduciary framework; benchmarks for government performance, benchmarks for development partner performance; agreement on aid modalities; and process for resolution of non-performance and disputes. These are the cross cutting principles of the IHP+ built on the Paris Declaration on Aids Effectiveness.
We recognize that domestic funding should make a significant contribution in meeting the challenges for Health-MDGs. Thus, the government has steadily improved on its funding support for Health-MDGs in recent years: N15 billion in 2008; and N22.5 billion proposed for 2009. We are internally challenged by issues of efficiency and in spending wisely and we are thus looking for technical assistance in this regards, especially in building capacity for power costing for Health-MDGs, and in innovative mechanisms that offer tremendous potential to save lives through new and creative solutions. Domestic funding alone is unlikely to meet all the challenges of funding Health-MDGs. We also remain concerned on whether or not we are making real progress in terms of the indicators.
Arguably, the greatest burden of disease in Nigeria is attributable to the index diseases of HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculoses (ATM), and the diseases are at the heart the Health-MDGs Global compact. As mentioned above, the level of resources, both from within and external, to fight these diseases has increased steadily.
However, the national response remains complex and confusing with multiple overlaps and poor coordination. Progress has been very slow. We certainly can do far more and we intend to do so. For this reason, a task force on ATM has been established, under my direct supervision, as part of a renewed spirited effort to ensure visible progress on Health-MDGs.
Membership of the task force are drawn from the Federal Ministry of Health, other Federal Ministries (National Planning, Ministry of Finance/Budget Office), and representative of state MOHs, members from cooperating partners active in ATM, representatives from civil society, and representatives from private sector bodies.
The committee has focal point persons from the Federal Ministry of Health to assist in both technical and administrative work of the committee. I shall be the Chairman, with the Honourable Minister of State for Health serving as Alternate Chairman and member of the committee. Importantly, we have since moved forward, and we are continuing in this trend. Constant review and determination as exemplified in the President Yar’Adua’s directive remain our top priority and we shall not shirk our responsibility in this respect. You can count on us.
• Prof. Osotimehin is Minister of Health.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
HEALTH MINISTER TASKS WORKERS ON NATIONAL HEALTH PLAN
In the bid to ensure the realization of providing quality health care to all
Nigerians by the year 2011, the Nigerian Minister of Health Professor Babatunde Osotimehin has called on the health workers to give in the their total best as the move for the strategic Agenda for Health goes on.
He made this call during a retreat on the finalization of the Ministry’s Health Agenda in Abuja yesterday with the staff, Head of Departments, Directors and Permanent secretary of the ministry.
The Minister said, the strategy which sets an agenda to revitalize the health system in Nigeria within 24 months realistic plan and incorporating long term components to be bequeathed for future implementation and would take health to people with primary Health Care that works would only be realizable through the commitment and dedication of all the stakeholders. Adding that, it is only by following the Agenda for health that progress can be measured.
The Agenda for health of the Ministry of health when fully implemented will provide specific efforts directed at nurturing inter sectoral collaboration and coordination that will address a coordinated response to National Health Emergencies and other health related issues.
Osotimehin added that the ministry will take measures to improve the understanding of the citizenry on their health education and public enlightment to promote access to quality, affordable and accessible health care services while ensuring the greater protection and safety of citizens utilizing services.
Nigerians by the year 2011, the Nigerian Minister of Health Professor Babatunde Osotimehin has called on the health workers to give in the their total best as the move for the strategic Agenda for Health goes on.
He made this call during a retreat on the finalization of the Ministry’s Health Agenda in Abuja yesterday with the staff, Head of Departments, Directors and Permanent secretary of the ministry.
The Minister said, the strategy which sets an agenda to revitalize the health system in Nigeria within 24 months realistic plan and incorporating long term components to be bequeathed for future implementation and would take health to people with primary Health Care that works would only be realizable through the commitment and dedication of all the stakeholders. Adding that, it is only by following the Agenda for health that progress can be measured.
The Agenda for health of the Ministry of health when fully implemented will provide specific efforts directed at nurturing inter sectoral collaboration and coordination that will address a coordinated response to National Health Emergencies and other health related issues.
Osotimehin added that the ministry will take measures to improve the understanding of the citizenry on their health education and public enlightment to promote access to quality, affordable and accessible health care services while ensuring the greater protection and safety of citizens utilizing services.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Health Minister Flags off Immunization Campaign.
Mother Theresa Children’s Home located in Gwarinpa Abuja played host to the Minister of Health, Professor Babatunde Osotimehin yesterday in Abuja when the Minister visited the home to kick off May/June 2009 Immunization Day Plus (IPD) exercise.
The second phase of the Immunization Plus Day is coming on the heel of the first one that recorded significant record of coverage as the areas that were considered as non receptive have fully embraced the immunization initiative. It will be recalled that Nigeria has implemented six rounds of Supplemental Immunization Campaigns, three of which have been national achieving 90% increase to 627 from 550 coverage of July 2008 of the 774 Local Governments Areas, thus leading to significant decline in the number of unvaccinated children.
Osotimehin, while immunizing the children at the home praised the management of the home for their excellent practices in hygiene and proper care of the children and promised Government supports to the running of the home which he described as a selfless model for other homes. “The babies are very healthy, the home is well managed and the sanitation level is very high and encouraging, it is therefore our duty to ensure government’s supports for the orphanage.” he added.
The director of the Mother Theresa Children Home, Yeye Bolanle Dare thanked the minister for choosing the home to flag off the Immunization Plus Day exercise and assured the minister of the home continuous and proper care for the children.
The minister informed journalists that this phase of the campaign is to follow the dramatic improvement in population immunity registered in Kano state where for the first time ever, the children never vaccinated, reduced to less than 20%. The campaign which is to cover all the Local Government Areas in Nigeria would last for one week.
The second phase of the Immunization Plus Day is coming on the heel of the first one that recorded significant record of coverage as the areas that were considered as non receptive have fully embraced the immunization initiative. It will be recalled that Nigeria has implemented six rounds of Supplemental Immunization Campaigns, three of which have been national achieving 90% increase to 627 from 550 coverage of July 2008 of the 774 Local Governments Areas, thus leading to significant decline in the number of unvaccinated children.
Osotimehin, while immunizing the children at the home praised the management of the home for their excellent practices in hygiene and proper care of the children and promised Government supports to the running of the home which he described as a selfless model for other homes. “The babies are very healthy, the home is well managed and the sanitation level is very high and encouraging, it is therefore our duty to ensure government’s supports for the orphanage.” he added.
The director of the Mother Theresa Children Home, Yeye Bolanle Dare thanked the minister for choosing the home to flag off the Immunization Plus Day exercise and assured the minister of the home continuous and proper care for the children.
The minister informed journalists that this phase of the campaign is to follow the dramatic improvement in population immunity registered in Kano state where for the first time ever, the children never vaccinated, reduced to less than 20%. The campaign which is to cover all the Local Government Areas in Nigeria would last for one week.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
REDUCING MATERNAL MORTALITY RATE IN NIGERIA
Maternal mortality; the death of a woman while pregnant or within forty two days after delivery, excluding accidental causes of death has been a cause of worry to many succeeding governments. Calculated by the number of maternal death related to child bearing divided by live births, Nigeria maternal mortality rate is the second largest in the world.
According to a 2007 WHO report, Nigeria’s maternal mortality rate is about 1,100 per 100,000 live births. Over half a million women die in childbirth annually around the world, according the WHO, Nigeria alone accounts for 10 percent of these deaths. With a population of about 140 million, it means about 60,000 deaths per year.
The factors that gave rise to these staggering statistics are varied. Firstly, the absence of sufficient health facilities in the rural areas. Because of this, many pregnant women chose to have their babies under the care of native midwives, often with concoctions administered on them.
Even when the health centre is available, the dilapidated roads to the centres could discourage anyone from risking the life of a mother, trying to reach the centres.
Secondly, ignorance about how and where a pregnant woman would have access to government provided free maternal health facilities is also a factor. Many women are unaware that government in some states has actually provided free medical care for pregnant women. This might account for the low number of pregnant women accessing medical facilities. According to a study, only 31 percent of pregnant women had access to maternal health facilities during their pregnancy.
Where the centres are available, acute power outages make the maximal use of medical facilities difficult. Some doctors have resorted to keep torch light handy in the event of an emergency.
Added to these is the concentration of medical personnel in urban areas. Because of the availability of basic amenities like water, good access roads and electricity, many medical personnel rather chose to live in urban centres. And since majority of people live in rural areas, a lot of people are denied the services of professional medical personnel.
The response of Nigerians to the problem of maternal mortality has been varied. While some believe it is because of lack of political commitment by the government in power to fulfill its obligations to the people; others think it’s rampant because the few available health facilities are stretched to their limits. Some believe that Nigeria has all it takes to meet the UN’S Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) to cut maternity and infant death rate by three quarters by the year 2015. This school of thought believe it’s just the political will and judicious use of resources that would guarantee the attainment of these goals. While others find it unacceptable that Nigeria should be losing her mothers because of lack of adequate health facilities.
It was against this background that President Umar Yar’Adua assumed office in May 2007. Accepting the challenges before him, he pragmatically came up with his now famous 7 point Agenda. A blue print to bring Nigeria out of the doldrums of poverty, unemployment and decaying infrastructure. With a promise to revitalize the health sectors and bring education to a level befitting a country like Nigeria. He has since hired the hands of technocrats to bring his vision to fruition. And with the quality of steps taken so far, it is assumed that this administration would deliver on its promises. The promise of making Nigeria a country of which its citizens would be proud to call their own.
Reeling out statistics without corresponding actions in terms of spirited commitment would amount to an analytical jamboree. It’s on this vein that the committed steps taken by the Minister of Health, Professor Babatunde Osotimehin calls for critical analysis and preview.
His innovative integrated approach of addressing the problem of maternal health is highly commendably. The approach which has in it package a uniform guideline for all states healthcare providers would see State’s Commissioners of Health follow a common framework that will ensure that women receive the best form maternal health care that would significantly reduce the incidence of maternal deaths.
And achieving this honestly does not lay on the single purview of the minister alone, it calls for a collective action of all stakeholders as far as maternal health is concern. With everyone doing his or her own bidding, I manifestly see a drastic reduction in maternal deaths. It shouldn’t be just a government thing but wholesome involvements of all. In my strong opinion, the funding of Health system should be an altruistic involvement of all Nigerians. This can be done in such a subtle manner that the good people of Nigeria cannot feel the bite so harsh. Lets every item bought by every Nigerian carry a ten naira tax on it. Better still, essentials like recharging of phone sets, buying of automobiles, tobacco products, soft drinks, Alcohol, motor fares, and other life essentials.
This can equally be complemented by religious bodies where certain percentage of offerings and sadakas are set aside for maternal health. Contributory gestures of highly placed Nigerians can also go a long way in strengthening maternal health in Nigeria.
The final realization of this initiative can come from the huge contributions of corporate organizations as part of their corporate responsibility packages. Where we have the private partnership of this people as it is been canvassed by Professor Osotimehin, then the perennial scare of deaths recorded in the cause of maternal responsibilities would be a thing of the past.
Already, this altruistic effort is beginning to gain momentum by some individuals as seen by the recent efforts of the Senate Committee led by Senator Iyabo Bello Obasanjo who is lobbying her colleagues to sacrifice personally from their pockets whatever they can give to support the reduction in maternal mortality rate. Her involvement of donor agencies during the celebration of the Mothers Days is the type of personal involvement that is being advocated here.
We can do it because the health of our women is a paramount natural responsibility; we owe them the duty to ensure their well being as they go through the excruciating sacrifices of life for us. With this, we are very sure of reducing the scary statistics of our maternal mortality rate.
Abdullahi O.Haruna Haruspice wrote in from Abuja.
Maternal mortality; the death of a woman while pregnant or within forty two days after delivery, excluding accidental causes of death has been a cause of worry to many succeeding governments. Calculated by the number of maternal death related to child bearing divided by live births, Nigeria maternal mortality rate is the second largest in the world.
According to a 2007 WHO report, Nigeria’s maternal mortality rate is about 1,100 per 100,000 live births. Over half a million women die in childbirth annually around the world, according the WHO, Nigeria alone accounts for 10 percent of these deaths. With a population of about 140 million, it means about 60,000 deaths per year.
The factors that gave rise to these staggering statistics are varied. Firstly, the absence of sufficient health facilities in the rural areas. Because of this, many pregnant women chose to have their babies under the care of native midwives, often with concoctions administered on them.
Even when the health centre is available, the dilapidated roads to the centres could discourage anyone from risking the life of a mother, trying to reach the centres.
Secondly, ignorance about how and where a pregnant woman would have access to government provided free maternal health facilities is also a factor. Many women are unaware that government in some states has actually provided free medical care for pregnant women. This might account for the low number of pregnant women accessing medical facilities. According to a study, only 31 percent of pregnant women had access to maternal health facilities during their pregnancy.
Where the centres are available, acute power outages make the maximal use of medical facilities difficult. Some doctors have resorted to keep torch light handy in the event of an emergency.
Added to these is the concentration of medical personnel in urban areas. Because of the availability of basic amenities like water, good access roads and electricity, many medical personnel rather chose to live in urban centres. And since majority of people live in rural areas, a lot of people are denied the services of professional medical personnel.
The response of Nigerians to the problem of maternal mortality has been varied. While some believe it is because of lack of political commitment by the government in power to fulfill its obligations to the people; others think it’s rampant because the few available health facilities are stretched to their limits. Some believe that Nigeria has all it takes to meet the UN’S Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) to cut maternity and infant death rate by three quarters by the year 2015. This school of thought believe it’s just the political will and judicious use of resources that would guarantee the attainment of these goals. While others find it unacceptable that Nigeria should be losing her mothers because of lack of adequate health facilities.
It was against this background that President Umar Yar’Adua assumed office in May 2007. Accepting the challenges before him, he pragmatically came up with his now famous 7 point Agenda. A blue print to bring Nigeria out of the doldrums of poverty, unemployment and decaying infrastructure. With a promise to revitalize the health sectors and bring education to a level befitting a country like Nigeria. He has since hired the hands of technocrats to bring his vision to fruition. And with the quality of steps taken so far, it is assumed that this administration would deliver on its promises. The promise of making Nigeria a country of which its citizens would be proud to call their own.
Reeling out statistics without corresponding actions in terms of spirited commitment would amount to an analytical jamboree. It’s on this vein that the committed steps taken by the Minister of Health, Professor Babatunde Osotimehin calls for critical analysis and preview.
His innovative integrated approach of addressing the problem of maternal health is highly commendably. The approach which has in it package a uniform guideline for all states healthcare providers would see State’s Commissioners of Health follow a common framework that will ensure that women receive the best form maternal health care that would significantly reduce the incidence of maternal deaths.
And achieving this honestly does not lay on the single purview of the minister alone, it calls for a collective action of all stakeholders as far as maternal health is concern. With everyone doing his or her own bidding, I manifestly see a drastic reduction in maternal deaths. It shouldn’t be just a government thing but wholesome involvements of all. In my strong opinion, the funding of Health system should be an altruistic involvement of all Nigerians. This can be done in such a subtle manner that the good people of Nigeria cannot feel the bite so harsh. Lets every item bought by every Nigerian carry a ten naira tax on it. Better still, essentials like recharging of phone sets, buying of automobiles, tobacco products, soft drinks, Alcohol, motor fares, and other life essentials.
This can equally be complemented by religious bodies where certain percentage of offerings and sadakas are set aside for maternal health. Contributory gestures of highly placed Nigerians can also go a long way in strengthening maternal health in Nigeria.
The final realization of this initiative can come from the huge contributions of corporate organizations as part of their corporate responsibility packages. Where we have the private partnership of this people as it is been canvassed by Professor Osotimehin, then the perennial scare of deaths recorded in the cause of maternal responsibilities would be a thing of the past.
Already, this altruistic effort is beginning to gain momentum by some individuals as seen by the recent efforts of the Senate Committee led by Senator Iyabo Bello Obasanjo who is lobbying her colleagues to sacrifice personally from their pockets whatever they can give to support the reduction in maternal mortality rate. Her involvement of donor agencies during the celebration of the Mothers Days is the type of personal involvement that is being advocated here.
We can do it because the health of our women is a paramount natural responsibility; we owe them the duty to ensure their well being as they go through the excruciating sacrifices of life for us. With this, we are very sure of reducing the scary statistics of our maternal mortality rate.
Abdullahi O.Haruna Haruspice wrote in from Abuja.
Monday, May 25, 2009
WHO Partners Osotimehin on Research for Infectious Diseases of Poverty
As part of government’s effort for strengthening comprehensive health system in Nigeria, the World Health Organization, (WHO) has given a boost to the Federal Ministry of Health with the take off of its Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases in Nigeria.
Speaking during the first annual meeting of the Thematic Reference Group (TRG) on Health Systems and Implementation Research held in Abuja, the WHO Representative for Nigeria, Dr. Peter Eriki, said the success of disease control interventions ultimately depends on the nature and performance of the health system in any given country or setting. Thus, it has become necessary to systemically review research evidence and evaluate its relevance to disease control needs and assess challenges facing the government of developing countries in building their effective health care system. He promised to highlight significant advice, guidance on priority areas and critical gaps and needs for research on infectious diseases of poverty from a health system perspective.
Dr. Eriki stressed that responding to the health needs of the poorest will require a major scale-up of coverage of good-quality primary care, referral to first-level hospital care, and mechanisms to protect poor households from catastrophic health care payments. The TDR, he added, has set up a Thematic Reference Group (TRG) for the country’s health system and implementation as this will address these critical issues over the years to come. The meeting in Abuja, Nigeria is the first meeting for members of the TRG to discuss relevant key issues and agree on how to plan and achieve the objectives expected.
Minister of Health, Professor Babatunde Osotimehin, in his response thanked WHO and TDR for the opportunity given to Nigeria to host the Thematic Reference Group, stating that, in order to promote rational decision-making in programmatic and policy matters, health managers and policy makers need evidence-based information that would emanate from health research.
Osotimehin tasked the Thematic Group to consider assisting Nigeria in enhancing her capacity to undertake research as the country would gain a lot from the conduct and application of findings from implementation and impact research in the health sector.
“We need to rapidly increase the number of researchers who would possess the required skill for conducting research in these areas including the capacity to undertake socio-economic analysis of the designs of the delivery of our programmes”, he added.
The Minister promised to assist the researchers facilitate access to the means (technical assistance, grants) for undertaking the research studies. He further called on the Thematic Group to see the country’s health policies and programmes as suitable subjects for implementation and impact research.
Speaking during the first annual meeting of the Thematic Reference Group (TRG) on Health Systems and Implementation Research held in Abuja, the WHO Representative for Nigeria, Dr. Peter Eriki, said the success of disease control interventions ultimately depends on the nature and performance of the health system in any given country or setting. Thus, it has become necessary to systemically review research evidence and evaluate its relevance to disease control needs and assess challenges facing the government of developing countries in building their effective health care system. He promised to highlight significant advice, guidance on priority areas and critical gaps and needs for research on infectious diseases of poverty from a health system perspective.
Dr. Eriki stressed that responding to the health needs of the poorest will require a major scale-up of coverage of good-quality primary care, referral to first-level hospital care, and mechanisms to protect poor households from catastrophic health care payments. The TDR, he added, has set up a Thematic Reference Group (TRG) for the country’s health system and implementation as this will address these critical issues over the years to come. The meeting in Abuja, Nigeria is the first meeting for members of the TRG to discuss relevant key issues and agree on how to plan and achieve the objectives expected.
Minister of Health, Professor Babatunde Osotimehin, in his response thanked WHO and TDR for the opportunity given to Nigeria to host the Thematic Reference Group, stating that, in order to promote rational decision-making in programmatic and policy matters, health managers and policy makers need evidence-based information that would emanate from health research.
Osotimehin tasked the Thematic Group to consider assisting Nigeria in enhancing her capacity to undertake research as the country would gain a lot from the conduct and application of findings from implementation and impact research in the health sector.
“We need to rapidly increase the number of researchers who would possess the required skill for conducting research in these areas including the capacity to undertake socio-economic analysis of the designs of the delivery of our programmes”, he added.
The Minister promised to assist the researchers facilitate access to the means (technical assistance, grants) for undertaking the research studies. He further called on the Thematic Group to see the country’s health policies and programmes as suitable subjects for implementation and impact research.
LOCAL DRUG MANUFACTURERS SEEK OSOTIMEHIN’S SUPPORT
In a bid to strengthen and increase the stakes of local manufacturing in Nigeria, the Pharmaceutical Association of Nigeria (PMG-MAN) has strongly called on the Federal Government to provide an enabling environment for the manufacturing of local drugs.
The PMG-MAN made this appeal during its recent visit to the Minister of Health, Professor Babatunde Osotimehin in his office. The group, led by its Chairman, Dr. Joseph Odumodu called on the Minister to use his spirited goodwill to get the Government to facilitate the industry’s access to cheap fund, put up a criteria to select competent and qualified Pharmaceutical industries to receive additional government support towards achieving fast-track WHO-pre-qualified status within one year, creating enabling regulatory support through capacity building, facilitate linkage with international and local partners for capacity building and to ensure that a recurrent gap of 35% is met in the National Drug Policy.
Stressing further, Dr. Odumodo decried the negative impact of donors’ influence on the local manufacturing industry should all the drugs be imported. To forestall the collapse of local drug manufacturing industries, Dr Odumodo maintained that the Pharmaceutical industry be accorded a ‘Special Status’, because the availability of essential medicines is critical to the success of healthcare delivery. “We believe essential medicines have security implications for survival of our nation hence our commitment to self –sufficiency in basic medicines for Nigeria as a nation” he added.
Professor Osotimehin, while responding, thanked the group for their patriotic and spirited efforts and promised to actively support any form of local initiatives aimed at producing local drugs as Nigeria has the capacity to provide a framework for Africa, and indeed the world. “We as Government, have great responsibility and commitment to be able to fund and sustain local research efforts. We will work actively and collectively with supporting agencies like NAFDAC, NIPRD and the Health Ministry to make sure your request gets to the appropriate quarters. We have to work hard to such a level that, we would be able to connect with the international market”. Osotimehin said.
In demonstrating the penchant for the domestication of indigenous initiatives, Osotimehin said, two indigenous companies have been awarded the production of mosquito treated bed-nets, challenging the group to also come up with local chemicals that would be used to treat the bed-nets as it would not be economical to have the bed –nets produced in Nigeria and the chemicals imported. “We should take advantage of the resources at our disposal to have a benchmark for quality as there is no substitute for the best.” The minister further called for the immediate formation of a forum that would fast track the realization of the initiative.
In the same vein, the Minister of State for Health, Dr. Aliyu Idi Hong reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring that the Local Pharmaceutical manufacturing company takes full charge of drugs manufacturing that is within their capacity. Stating that, the Ministries of Commerce, Finance and the Bank of Industry would be actively involved in the bid to support the robust idea of the PMG-MAN as such effort would create employment opportunities to Nigerians and strengthen National Security. “If Donors cannot patronize our local manufacturing drug companies, then they would have to keep their funding as we would fall back to our merger resources” he said.
The Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Group of Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (PMG-MAN), which is an umbrella organization of bona-fide Pharmaceutical manufacturers in the country, has a strong membership of over a hundred group of locally based manufacturers.
With a current employment rate of over 3000 Nigerians some of whom are skilled and are experts in Pharmaceutical manufacturing, formulation technology, sales and marketing. The group has a revenue base of N40 billion and the supply of over 35 percent of Nigeria’s drug needs, with tested excess capacities for several therapeutic areas like analgesics, anti-malarias, cough and cold preparations.
The PMG-MAN made this appeal during its recent visit to the Minister of Health, Professor Babatunde Osotimehin in his office. The group, led by its Chairman, Dr. Joseph Odumodu called on the Minister to use his spirited goodwill to get the Government to facilitate the industry’s access to cheap fund, put up a criteria to select competent and qualified Pharmaceutical industries to receive additional government support towards achieving fast-track WHO-pre-qualified status within one year, creating enabling regulatory support through capacity building, facilitate linkage with international and local partners for capacity building and to ensure that a recurrent gap of 35% is met in the National Drug Policy.
Stressing further, Dr. Odumodo decried the negative impact of donors’ influence on the local manufacturing industry should all the drugs be imported. To forestall the collapse of local drug manufacturing industries, Dr Odumodo maintained that the Pharmaceutical industry be accorded a ‘Special Status’, because the availability of essential medicines is critical to the success of healthcare delivery. “We believe essential medicines have security implications for survival of our nation hence our commitment to self –sufficiency in basic medicines for Nigeria as a nation” he added.
Professor Osotimehin, while responding, thanked the group for their patriotic and spirited efforts and promised to actively support any form of local initiatives aimed at producing local drugs as Nigeria has the capacity to provide a framework for Africa, and indeed the world. “We as Government, have great responsibility and commitment to be able to fund and sustain local research efforts. We will work actively and collectively with supporting agencies like NAFDAC, NIPRD and the Health Ministry to make sure your request gets to the appropriate quarters. We have to work hard to such a level that, we would be able to connect with the international market”. Osotimehin said.
In demonstrating the penchant for the domestication of indigenous initiatives, Osotimehin said, two indigenous companies have been awarded the production of mosquito treated bed-nets, challenging the group to also come up with local chemicals that would be used to treat the bed-nets as it would not be economical to have the bed –nets produced in Nigeria and the chemicals imported. “We should take advantage of the resources at our disposal to have a benchmark for quality as there is no substitute for the best.” The minister further called for the immediate formation of a forum that would fast track the realization of the initiative.
In the same vein, the Minister of State for Health, Dr. Aliyu Idi Hong reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring that the Local Pharmaceutical manufacturing company takes full charge of drugs manufacturing that is within their capacity. Stating that, the Ministries of Commerce, Finance and the Bank of Industry would be actively involved in the bid to support the robust idea of the PMG-MAN as such effort would create employment opportunities to Nigerians and strengthen National Security. “If Donors cannot patronize our local manufacturing drug companies, then they would have to keep their funding as we would fall back to our merger resources” he said.
The Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Group of Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (PMG-MAN), which is an umbrella organization of bona-fide Pharmaceutical manufacturers in the country, has a strong membership of over a hundred group of locally based manufacturers.
With a current employment rate of over 3000 Nigerians some of whom are skilled and are experts in Pharmaceutical manufacturing, formulation technology, sales and marketing. The group has a revenue base of N40 billion and the supply of over 35 percent of Nigeria’s drug needs, with tested excess capacities for several therapeutic areas like analgesics, anti-malarias, cough and cold preparations.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Update on the A(H1N1) Influenza
• As at 13th May 2009, thirty three (33) countries have officially reported 5728 cases of Influenza A/H1N1 infection in humans
• Mexico has reported 2059 confirmed cases with 56 deaths while, the USA has reported 3009 Laboratory confirmed human cases of Influenza A(H1N1) with 3 deaths.
• Canada has also recorded 358 cases with 1 death and Costa Rica 8 cases with 1 death
• The following countries have also reported laboratory confirmed cases but with no death: Spain (98), Austria (1), New Zealand (7), Israel (7,) Germany (12), the United Kingdom (68), Denmark (1), Colombia (6), El Salvador (4), France (13), Ireland (1), Republic of Korea (3), Switzerland (1), China -Hong Kong and China (3), Guatemala (3), Italy (9), Portugal (1), Netherlands (3), Sweden (2), Poland (1), Brazil (8), Argentina (1), Panama (29), Australia (1), Cuba (1), Finland (2), Thailand (2), Japan (4) and Norway (2).
• So far the deaths recorded have been from Mexico (56), the USA (3), Canada (1) and Costa Rica (1), making a total of 61 deaths recorded.
Current situation in Nigeria as at 13th May 2009.
1. As at 13th May 2009 Nigeria has not recorded any suspected case of Influenza A/H1N1.
The Federal Ministry of Health recommends routine precautions to prevent the spread of infectious diseases such as washing your hands often, covering your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze.
For more information, please contact Dr J.Y. Jiya, DPH, FMOH, Abuja . Tel 08060495210, e-mail: jiyajy@yahoo.com, Dr. A Nasidi, Director Special Project, FMOH, Abuja . Tel 08037006849, e-mail nasidia@gmail.com, and Dr Henry Akpan, National Epidemiologist, FMOH, Abuja. Tel 08037626718, e-mail: akpanhem@yahoo.com
Sincerely,
Niyi Ojuolape
Special Assistant (Communications) to the Minister of Health
• Mexico has reported 2059 confirmed cases with 56 deaths while, the USA has reported 3009 Laboratory confirmed human cases of Influenza A(H1N1) with 3 deaths.
• Canada has also recorded 358 cases with 1 death and Costa Rica 8 cases with 1 death
• The following countries have also reported laboratory confirmed cases but with no death: Spain (98), Austria (1), New Zealand (7), Israel (7,) Germany (12), the United Kingdom (68), Denmark (1), Colombia (6), El Salvador (4), France (13), Ireland (1), Republic of Korea (3), Switzerland (1), China -Hong Kong and China (3), Guatemala (3), Italy (9), Portugal (1), Netherlands (3), Sweden (2), Poland (1), Brazil (8), Argentina (1), Panama (29), Australia (1), Cuba (1), Finland (2), Thailand (2), Japan (4) and Norway (2).
• So far the deaths recorded have been from Mexico (56), the USA (3), Canada (1) and Costa Rica (1), making a total of 61 deaths recorded.
Current situation in Nigeria as at 13th May 2009.
1. As at 13th May 2009 Nigeria has not recorded any suspected case of Influenza A/H1N1.
The Federal Ministry of Health recommends routine precautions to prevent the spread of infectious diseases such as washing your hands often, covering your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze.
For more information, please contact Dr J.Y. Jiya, DPH, FMOH, Abuja . Tel 08060495210, e-mail: jiyajy@yahoo.com, Dr. A Nasidi, Director Special Project, FMOH, Abuja . Tel 08037006849, e-mail nasidia@gmail.com, and Dr Henry Akpan, National Epidemiologist, FMOH, Abuja. Tel 08037626718, e-mail: akpanhem@yahoo.com
Sincerely,
Niyi Ojuolape
Special Assistant (Communications) to the Minister of Health
Monday, May 4, 2009
NIGERIA IS SWINE –FLU FREE, OSOTIMEHIN
Minister of Health, Professor Babatunde Osotimehin has come out strong that Nigeria has not recorded any trace of the swine-flu that is spreading fast across the world. He made this statement during an emergency meeting of stakeholders and Partners on Swine Flu in his office. “So far as at 30th April 2009, Nigeria has not recorded any suspected case of Swine flu and the Federal Government of Nigeria is prepared to contain any outbreak of Swine Flu in the Country”. He said.
In order to promptly detect and effectively respond to any suspected case, the Ministry has put in place; The National Epidemic Preparedness and Response Committee to include state commissioners of Health, the WHO case definition with surveillance guidelines and Swine Flu Laboratory guidelines disseminated to all States Ministries of Health including clinicians and the states’ Epidemiologists have also been directed to carry out sensitization activities and conduct surveillance in their various states. Stressing further that surveillance has been strengthened at all ports of entry into the country and all Federal Port Health Services Officers are on the alert at all international Airports.
Osotimehin also said that immediate steps of procuring drugs and supplies and Laboratory Reagents, madia ,training of State’s Directors of Public health, Epidemiologists, Prepositioning of drugs and supplies in all the States including FCT and Federal Hospitals, training of Port Health Services officers on swine flu identification, Training of Laboratory Scientists on the laboratory confirmation of Swine Flu, and sensitization meetings with International Health Regulations/Stakeholders on Swine flu have been taken.
Meanwhile, Dr. Junaidu Maina, Chief Veterinary Officer of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture has said that the Swine Flu is a human disease, as there has been no scientific proof that it’s transmitted from pig but from human to human. The Country Representative of the World Health Organization, WHO has reiterated the WHO’s commitment in addressing the possible outbreak of the Swine Flu.
The Minister added that mechanisms would be put in place to ensure the massive creation of awareness to reach the public with special awareness campaign package on NTA Network news, the FRCN and FM Stations across the 36 States and FCT.
It will be recalled that on the 25th April 2009, The Director General of the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the outbreak of Swine Flu in Mexico and the USA; this was in accordance with the International Health Regulations (IHR2005) of which Nigeria is a signatory. So far, nine countries have officially reported 148 cases of Swine Influenza A/H1N1 infections in humans, with the USA confirming the human case of Swine influenza in 6 states with 1 death recorded in a 23 months old toddler. Meanwhile, Mexico appeared to top the countries with the highest record of the Swine Flu. So far, 26 cases have been confirmed with 7 deaths recorded, while Canada had so far recorded 13 cases and no death and Spain with 4 confirmed cases with no death. The following countries have also reported laboratory confirmed cases but with no death: Austria (1), New Zealand (3), Israel (2), Germany (30) and the United Kingdom with five cases.
The World Health Organization (WHO) said, “While most countries will not be affected at this stage, the declaration of Phase % is a strong signal that a pandemic is imminent and that the time to finalize the organization, communication, and implementation of the planned mitigation measure is now”
In order to promptly detect and effectively respond to any suspected case, the Ministry has put in place; The National Epidemic Preparedness and Response Committee to include state commissioners of Health, the WHO case definition with surveillance guidelines and Swine Flu Laboratory guidelines disseminated to all States Ministries of Health including clinicians and the states’ Epidemiologists have also been directed to carry out sensitization activities and conduct surveillance in their various states. Stressing further that surveillance has been strengthened at all ports of entry into the country and all Federal Port Health Services Officers are on the alert at all international Airports.
Osotimehin also said that immediate steps of procuring drugs and supplies and Laboratory Reagents, madia ,training of State’s Directors of Public health, Epidemiologists, Prepositioning of drugs and supplies in all the States including FCT and Federal Hospitals, training of Port Health Services officers on swine flu identification, Training of Laboratory Scientists on the laboratory confirmation of Swine Flu, and sensitization meetings with International Health Regulations/Stakeholders on Swine flu have been taken.
Meanwhile, Dr. Junaidu Maina, Chief Veterinary Officer of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture has said that the Swine Flu is a human disease, as there has been no scientific proof that it’s transmitted from pig but from human to human. The Country Representative of the World Health Organization, WHO has reiterated the WHO’s commitment in addressing the possible outbreak of the Swine Flu.
The Minister added that mechanisms would be put in place to ensure the massive creation of awareness to reach the public with special awareness campaign package on NTA Network news, the FRCN and FM Stations across the 36 States and FCT.
It will be recalled that on the 25th April 2009, The Director General of the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the outbreak of Swine Flu in Mexico and the USA; this was in accordance with the International Health Regulations (IHR2005) of which Nigeria is a signatory. So far, nine countries have officially reported 148 cases of Swine Influenza A/H1N1 infections in humans, with the USA confirming the human case of Swine influenza in 6 states with 1 death recorded in a 23 months old toddler. Meanwhile, Mexico appeared to top the countries with the highest record of the Swine Flu. So far, 26 cases have been confirmed with 7 deaths recorded, while Canada had so far recorded 13 cases and no death and Spain with 4 confirmed cases with no death. The following countries have also reported laboratory confirmed cases but with no death: Austria (1), New Zealand (3), Israel (2), Germany (30) and the United Kingdom with five cases.
The World Health Organization (WHO) said, “While most countries will not be affected at this stage, the declaration of Phase % is a strong signal that a pandemic is imminent and that the time to finalize the organization, communication, and implementation of the planned mitigation measure is now”
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Monday, April 27, 2009
Health Alert : Swine Flu Epidemic
Health Alert : Swine Flu Epidemic
Background
On Friday 24th April, 2009, health officials in Mexico City, Mexico identified a new strain of Swine flu, which caused illnesses and deaths among its citizens. As at today, Monday 27th April 2009, there are so far 1614 suspected cases and 103 deaths recorded from the Flu in Mexico. However, only 22 cases had been clinically confirmed by laboratory tests as directly resulting from the swine flu.
The outbreak has also been reported in other countries of the world. In United States, 20 confirmed cases of Swine Flu had been identified in 5 cities (California, Kansas, New York City, Ohio and Texas) but with no fatality. Canada has reported 6 cases while Israel, New Zealand and Spain were investigating unconfirmed cases of Swine Flu.
The majority of cases have occurred in otherwise healthy young adults. Laboratory tests conducted in Canada have shown genetic linkage among the viruses identified in United States and Mexico, which might be indicative of an emerging pandemic. The virus has been described as a new subtype of A/H1N1 not previously detected in swine or humans.
Present Situation in Nigeria
So far, no suspected case of the Flu has been reported in Nigeria but the Federal Government is fully prepared to contain any outbreak of Swine Flu in the country.
Measures already put in place are:
We have strengthened surveillance at all ports of entry into the country – airports, seaports and all land borders. We have our surveillance officers present and fully ready in all Local Government Areas, States and at the Federal level.
We have in stock adequate quantities of Tamiflu, the drug of choice for treatment and we wish to by this inform all clinicians and health workers to report any suspected case of Swine flu to the Epidemiology Division, Department of Public Health, Federal Ministry of Health.
Contact persons:
Dr. J.Y. Jiya - 08034030212
Dr. A. Nasidi – 08037006349
Dr. Henry Akpan – 08037626718
Mr. John Kehinde - 08023210923
Prof. Babatunde Osotimehin
Honorable Minister of Health
Background
On Friday 24th April, 2009, health officials in Mexico City, Mexico identified a new strain of Swine flu, which caused illnesses and deaths among its citizens. As at today, Monday 27th April 2009, there are so far 1614 suspected cases and 103 deaths recorded from the Flu in Mexico. However, only 22 cases had been clinically confirmed by laboratory tests as directly resulting from the swine flu.
The outbreak has also been reported in other countries of the world. In United States, 20 confirmed cases of Swine Flu had been identified in 5 cities (California, Kansas, New York City, Ohio and Texas) but with no fatality. Canada has reported 6 cases while Israel, New Zealand and Spain were investigating unconfirmed cases of Swine Flu.
The majority of cases have occurred in otherwise healthy young adults. Laboratory tests conducted in Canada have shown genetic linkage among the viruses identified in United States and Mexico, which might be indicative of an emerging pandemic. The virus has been described as a new subtype of A/H1N1 not previously detected in swine or humans.
Present Situation in Nigeria
So far, no suspected case of the Flu has been reported in Nigeria but the Federal Government is fully prepared to contain any outbreak of Swine Flu in the country.
Measures already put in place are:
We have strengthened surveillance at all ports of entry into the country – airports, seaports and all land borders. We have our surveillance officers present and fully ready in all Local Government Areas, States and at the Federal level.
We have in stock adequate quantities of Tamiflu, the drug of choice for treatment and we wish to by this inform all clinicians and health workers to report any suspected case of Swine flu to the Epidemiology Division, Department of Public Health, Federal Ministry of Health.
Contact persons:
Dr. J.Y. Jiya - 08034030212
Dr. A. Nasidi – 08037006349
Dr. Henry Akpan – 08037626718
Mr. John Kehinde - 08023210923
Prof. Babatunde Osotimehin
Honorable Minister of Health
PRESENTATION BY THE SENIOR SPECIAL ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT ONMDGs, HAJIYA AMINA J. IBRAHIM OFR, AT THE 52ND NATIONAL COUNCIL ON HEALTH MEETING
PROTOCOLS
It is indeed a privilege and my pleasure to be invited to this distinguished gathering to discuss issues that revolve around the strategic role that the key stakeholders in the Health Sector need to play in the achievement of the MDGs, within the national developmental framework of the Yar’Adua Administration. I am delighted by the choice of the theme “Meeting the challenges of the health Millennium Development Goals” as it is timely and this will afford the opportunity to critically analyze burning issues and key challenges as we strive to collectively achieve the Health MDGs in Nigeria.
As policy makers and implementers drawn from Federal, State and Local Governments, who are directly responsible for the formulation and implementation of policies, there cannot be a more auspicious audience for this discussion. I am optimistic that the outcome of our interaction today will impact positively on the realization of the Health MDGs, which is of great concern to this Administration and the United Nations, given the wider challenges of the global financial crisis on our economies and thus the knock on effect to our social agenda.
THE MILLENNIUM DEVELOPMENT GOALS- ORIGIN AND SUMMARY
It will be recalled that at the United Nations’ Millennium summit in September 2000, World leaders from 189 Nations reinforced the global development agenda by adopting the Millennium Declaration which informed the eight Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) as the minimum baseline which set clear targets for reducing: poverty, hunger, disease, HIV/AIDS, Illiteracy, environmental issues, and discrimination against women by 2015.
It was acknowledged that progress is based on sustainable economic growth, which must focus on the poor, with human rights at the centre. The objective of the Millennium Declaration is to promote "a comprehensive approach and a coordinated strategy, tackling many problems simultaneously across a broad front."
It is also a global compact between rich and poor nations to address the resource gaps.
The eight Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) – which range from halving extreme poverty to halting the spread of HIV/AIDS and providing universal primary education promote gender equality, reduce maternal mortality, reduce child mortality, ensure environmental sustainability and develop a global partnership, all by the target date of 2015.
Goal 1- Eradication of extreme poverty hunger
Goal 2 – Achieve Universal Basic Education
Goal 3 – Promote Gender Equality & empower women
Goal 4 – Reduce child mortality
Goal 5 – Improve maternal health
Goal 6 – Combat HIV/Aids, malaria & other diseases
Goal 7 – Ensure environmental sustainability
Goal 8 – Develop a global partnership for development
These Goals constitute an ambitious rights based agenda to significantly improve the human condition by 2015. It is worthy to mention of the eight goals, three are health specific, namely: goals 4, reduce Child Mortality, goal 5, Improve maternal health and goal 6, Combat HIV/AIDs, Malaria and other diseases.
We are today, a little over the halfway mark to the target date of 2015. In September 2008 a mid-term assessment of where Nigeria and Africa stand in terms of achieving the MDGs was exhaustively discussed and key issues addressed in the outcomes of further commitments made by national governments, multilaterals and bilateral. New inflows also came from the private sector and Foundations such as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
Highlights of the findings of the Mid-term assessments include:-
• Worsening indices for child and maternal mortality
• Weakening health systems, management capacity and huge health worker resource gaps
• Inadequate infrastructure to support access and service delivery
• Insufficient resource flows for routine services
• Poor attendance of rural populace to healthcare
• Inadequate involvement of communities and key stakeholders
These challenges for Nigeria as a nation are daunting but not insurmountable. During the next 7 years our countdown strategy will have to clearly lay out a road map that has concrete milestones and articulate and define the roles and responsibilities of the 3 tiers of Government, the Private Sector, Civil Society and our International Development Partners. They must build on the current and past efforts of government while learning from the past strategies and investments that have not borne the desired fruit for our teeming population. They must be center and front of the 7 Point Agenda and integrated into the Vision 2020, in other words we must domesticate all the MDGs ensuring they are kept interdependent and mutually reinforcing.
For example we will continue to build on the gains of the Paris Club Debt Relief granted to Nigeria in 2005. This resulted in $1billion debt relief by the Paris club, out of these $750m represents funds accruing to the Federal Government, while $250 is for states affected by the debt relief. The Federal government committed its share of these savings to a Virtual Poverty Fund targeting and achieving the MDGs. Overall the debt relief gains support to the health sector since 2006 is in the sum of N57.3billion. Specifics of these are, between 2006 and 2008, the sum of N16 billion was expended for immunization activities through the National Primary Health Care Agency, the National Malaria Control Program of the Federal Ministry of Health was supported to the tune of over N4billion for the roll back malaria, while the HIV/AIDs was supported in the sum of N15billion. The sum of N1.089billion was also appropriated through the Federal Ministry of Health in 2008 for the take off of the Midwifery Service Scheme with an additional 3bn in 2009. The CHIS in 6 pilot States targets pregnant women and children under 5 with an investment of N5bn.
The Conditional Grants Scheme (CGS), which is another strategy for using debt relief, also provides a platform for partnership among the tiers of Government, and has reinforced issues that target maternal and child health projects, including Emergency Obstetrics Care (EMOC). In 2007, 19 States (including the FCT) accessed N18.4bn of these funds, out of this amount 40% was used for strengthening of Primary Health care systems. In 2008 N1.5bn under the CGS was provided for the November/December Polio eradication rounds in line with the Geneva Pledge. The “QUICK WINS” projects of the National Assembly which commenced last year and currently ongoing, also has as a component the construction and equipping of Primary health Care Centers nationwide.
We have been able to make significant progress in the area of HIV prevalence among 15-24 year old pregnant women which fell from 5.8% in 2002 to 4.3% in 2007. However, in other areas the indicators show that mid-point to the target year, our progress is too slow: Infant Mortality rate has risen from 81 per 1000 live births in year 2000 to 110 per 1000 in 2005/2006, which is farther away from the global target of 30 per 1000 live births ; Under- five mortality rate also increased from 184 per 1000 live births in 2000 to 201 per 1000 live births in 2007; maternal mortality has also risen from 704 per 100,000 in 2002 to 800 per 100,000 in 2007; the number of children orphaned by HIV/AIDs has increased in from 1.8m in 2004 to 1.9m in 2007.
So clearly investments have been made albeit concerns of coherence and strategic targeting are being raised.
The Health Millennium Development Goals In Nigeria
The Health MDGs address specifically; Child Mortality, Maternal Mortality, HIV AIDS, Malaria & other diseases. The key causes of mortality being measles, diarrhea, malaria, post partum hemorrhaging
The challenges of the Health sector are well known to almost all of us gathered here for this meeting. Over the years investments have been made, in some cases such as immunization, phenomenal amounts yet our indices worsened. Today we are burdened with some of the highest maternal mortality and child mortality rates in the world.
Without a healthy populace, of which the measure is our women (who should not be dying giving life) and without a knowledge society with relevant skills our vision will amount to nothing. As we strive to reposition our Health Sector under the able leadership of Professor Babatunde Osotimien, our investments in Primary Health Care Systems, revamping RBM, TB &HIV/AIDs, eradicating polio and providing relevant health care workers, will be re-addressed with a strategic vision and plan that reinforces local level actions on the ground. This can only succeed if the various stakeholders at this meeting buy into and own the vision.
There are clear concerns to the achievement of Health MDGs in Nigeria as they are clearly off track but understanding these challenges and placing them in our country reality means that they can be overcome. I would like to share a few of the key issues which I hope will be discussed at this National Council as I believe addressing them at all 3 tiers of government will pave a concrete path towards putting us back on track to meet and sustain the MDGs.
• A National policy framework not a Federal one….genuine inclusion the watchword
• Implementation strategies and plans that are smart and linked to an investment plan which has a budget behind it. Key investments for inputs such as data, statistics, mapping to improve the quality and relevance of our planning outcomes
• Genuine partnerships with clearly defined roles and responsibilities within given mandates and the constitution.
• Legal instruments to enable a robust primary health care system that delivers service to the populace at the local level
• Health reforms that address infrastructure, human resource gaps, health worker production, immunization and other vertical programs
• Financing strategy that goes beyond quick fix but looks at sustainable recurrent expenditure at local level
• Health systems and management challenges
• Governance and accountability
• Advocacy, Education, Monitoring & Evaluation
• IDP coherence and funding the gaps to achieve the MDGs
Meeting these health challenges of the MDGs is complex and collaboration intensive. It requires political commitment at levels going beyond communiqués into budgets. Our people not only deserve for us to serve them they have a right to basic healthcare. Our women do not deserve to be on the edge but mainstream, for only a healthy nation can deliver on the economic dividends. Remembering that half our population is female and therefore we cannot afford to neglect half our national assets.
We have the leadership, the resources, the political will, the demand and no excuse not to deliver on what is one of the most important dividends of democracy. In the MDG Office we will continue to work with the Federal Ministry of Health and the States to reinforce local strategies and scale up interventions that target the sustainable delivery of basic health care services to our people especially our women and children.
I sincerely believe that together we will be able to deliver the MDGs by 2015, so let us join hands firmly today towards a better health for all tomorrow.
Thank you and God bless Nigeria.
It is indeed a privilege and my pleasure to be invited to this distinguished gathering to discuss issues that revolve around the strategic role that the key stakeholders in the Health Sector need to play in the achievement of the MDGs, within the national developmental framework of the Yar’Adua Administration. I am delighted by the choice of the theme “Meeting the challenges of the health Millennium Development Goals” as it is timely and this will afford the opportunity to critically analyze burning issues and key challenges as we strive to collectively achieve the Health MDGs in Nigeria.
As policy makers and implementers drawn from Federal, State and Local Governments, who are directly responsible for the formulation and implementation of policies, there cannot be a more auspicious audience for this discussion. I am optimistic that the outcome of our interaction today will impact positively on the realization of the Health MDGs, which is of great concern to this Administration and the United Nations, given the wider challenges of the global financial crisis on our economies and thus the knock on effect to our social agenda.
THE MILLENNIUM DEVELOPMENT GOALS- ORIGIN AND SUMMARY
It will be recalled that at the United Nations’ Millennium summit in September 2000, World leaders from 189 Nations reinforced the global development agenda by adopting the Millennium Declaration which informed the eight Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) as the minimum baseline which set clear targets for reducing: poverty, hunger, disease, HIV/AIDS, Illiteracy, environmental issues, and discrimination against women by 2015.
It was acknowledged that progress is based on sustainable economic growth, which must focus on the poor, with human rights at the centre. The objective of the Millennium Declaration is to promote "a comprehensive approach and a coordinated strategy, tackling many problems simultaneously across a broad front."
It is also a global compact between rich and poor nations to address the resource gaps.
The eight Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) – which range from halving extreme poverty to halting the spread of HIV/AIDS and providing universal primary education promote gender equality, reduce maternal mortality, reduce child mortality, ensure environmental sustainability and develop a global partnership, all by the target date of 2015.
Goal 1- Eradication of extreme poverty hunger
Goal 2 – Achieve Universal Basic Education
Goal 3 – Promote Gender Equality & empower women
Goal 4 – Reduce child mortality
Goal 5 – Improve maternal health
Goal 6 – Combat HIV/Aids, malaria & other diseases
Goal 7 – Ensure environmental sustainability
Goal 8 – Develop a global partnership for development
These Goals constitute an ambitious rights based agenda to significantly improve the human condition by 2015. It is worthy to mention of the eight goals, three are health specific, namely: goals 4, reduce Child Mortality, goal 5, Improve maternal health and goal 6, Combat HIV/AIDs, Malaria and other diseases.
We are today, a little over the halfway mark to the target date of 2015. In September 2008 a mid-term assessment of where Nigeria and Africa stand in terms of achieving the MDGs was exhaustively discussed and key issues addressed in the outcomes of further commitments made by national governments, multilaterals and bilateral. New inflows also came from the private sector and Foundations such as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
Highlights of the findings of the Mid-term assessments include:-
• Worsening indices for child and maternal mortality
• Weakening health systems, management capacity and huge health worker resource gaps
• Inadequate infrastructure to support access and service delivery
• Insufficient resource flows for routine services
• Poor attendance of rural populace to healthcare
• Inadequate involvement of communities and key stakeholders
These challenges for Nigeria as a nation are daunting but not insurmountable. During the next 7 years our countdown strategy will have to clearly lay out a road map that has concrete milestones and articulate and define the roles and responsibilities of the 3 tiers of Government, the Private Sector, Civil Society and our International Development Partners. They must build on the current and past efforts of government while learning from the past strategies and investments that have not borne the desired fruit for our teeming population. They must be center and front of the 7 Point Agenda and integrated into the Vision 2020, in other words we must domesticate all the MDGs ensuring they are kept interdependent and mutually reinforcing.
For example we will continue to build on the gains of the Paris Club Debt Relief granted to Nigeria in 2005. This resulted in $1billion debt relief by the Paris club, out of these $750m represents funds accruing to the Federal Government, while $250 is for states affected by the debt relief. The Federal government committed its share of these savings to a Virtual Poverty Fund targeting and achieving the MDGs. Overall the debt relief gains support to the health sector since 2006 is in the sum of N57.3billion. Specifics of these are, between 2006 and 2008, the sum of N16 billion was expended for immunization activities through the National Primary Health Care Agency, the National Malaria Control Program of the Federal Ministry of Health was supported to the tune of over N4billion for the roll back malaria, while the HIV/AIDs was supported in the sum of N15billion. The sum of N1.089billion was also appropriated through the Federal Ministry of Health in 2008 for the take off of the Midwifery Service Scheme with an additional 3bn in 2009. The CHIS in 6 pilot States targets pregnant women and children under 5 with an investment of N5bn.
The Conditional Grants Scheme (CGS), which is another strategy for using debt relief, also provides a platform for partnership among the tiers of Government, and has reinforced issues that target maternal and child health projects, including Emergency Obstetrics Care (EMOC). In 2007, 19 States (including the FCT) accessed N18.4bn of these funds, out of this amount 40% was used for strengthening of Primary Health care systems. In 2008 N1.5bn under the CGS was provided for the November/December Polio eradication rounds in line with the Geneva Pledge. The “QUICK WINS” projects of the National Assembly which commenced last year and currently ongoing, also has as a component the construction and equipping of Primary health Care Centers nationwide.
We have been able to make significant progress in the area of HIV prevalence among 15-24 year old pregnant women which fell from 5.8% in 2002 to 4.3% in 2007. However, in other areas the indicators show that mid-point to the target year, our progress is too slow: Infant Mortality rate has risen from 81 per 1000 live births in year 2000 to 110 per 1000 in 2005/2006, which is farther away from the global target of 30 per 1000 live births ; Under- five mortality rate also increased from 184 per 1000 live births in 2000 to 201 per 1000 live births in 2007; maternal mortality has also risen from 704 per 100,000 in 2002 to 800 per 100,000 in 2007; the number of children orphaned by HIV/AIDs has increased in from 1.8m in 2004 to 1.9m in 2007.
So clearly investments have been made albeit concerns of coherence and strategic targeting are being raised.
The Health Millennium Development Goals In Nigeria
The Health MDGs address specifically; Child Mortality, Maternal Mortality, HIV AIDS, Malaria & other diseases. The key causes of mortality being measles, diarrhea, malaria, post partum hemorrhaging
The challenges of the Health sector are well known to almost all of us gathered here for this meeting. Over the years investments have been made, in some cases such as immunization, phenomenal amounts yet our indices worsened. Today we are burdened with some of the highest maternal mortality and child mortality rates in the world.
Without a healthy populace, of which the measure is our women (who should not be dying giving life) and without a knowledge society with relevant skills our vision will amount to nothing. As we strive to reposition our Health Sector under the able leadership of Professor Babatunde Osotimien, our investments in Primary Health Care Systems, revamping RBM, TB &HIV/AIDs, eradicating polio and providing relevant health care workers, will be re-addressed with a strategic vision and plan that reinforces local level actions on the ground. This can only succeed if the various stakeholders at this meeting buy into and own the vision.
There are clear concerns to the achievement of Health MDGs in Nigeria as they are clearly off track but understanding these challenges and placing them in our country reality means that they can be overcome. I would like to share a few of the key issues which I hope will be discussed at this National Council as I believe addressing them at all 3 tiers of government will pave a concrete path towards putting us back on track to meet and sustain the MDGs.
• A National policy framework not a Federal one….genuine inclusion the watchword
• Implementation strategies and plans that are smart and linked to an investment plan which has a budget behind it. Key investments for inputs such as data, statistics, mapping to improve the quality and relevance of our planning outcomes
• Genuine partnerships with clearly defined roles and responsibilities within given mandates and the constitution.
• Legal instruments to enable a robust primary health care system that delivers service to the populace at the local level
• Health reforms that address infrastructure, human resource gaps, health worker production, immunization and other vertical programs
• Financing strategy that goes beyond quick fix but looks at sustainable recurrent expenditure at local level
• Health systems and management challenges
• Governance and accountability
• Advocacy, Education, Monitoring & Evaluation
• IDP coherence and funding the gaps to achieve the MDGs
Meeting these health challenges of the MDGs is complex and collaboration intensive. It requires political commitment at levels going beyond communiqués into budgets. Our people not only deserve for us to serve them they have a right to basic healthcare. Our women do not deserve to be on the edge but mainstream, for only a healthy nation can deliver on the economic dividends. Remembering that half our population is female and therefore we cannot afford to neglect half our national assets.
We have the leadership, the resources, the political will, the demand and no excuse not to deliver on what is one of the most important dividends of democracy. In the MDG Office we will continue to work with the Federal Ministry of Health and the States to reinforce local strategies and scale up interventions that target the sustainable delivery of basic health care services to our people especially our women and children.
I sincerely believe that together we will be able to deliver the MDGs by 2015, so let us join hands firmly today towards a better health for all tomorrow.
Thank you and God bless Nigeria.
SPEECH OF THE HON. MINISTER OF STATE FOR HEALTH DR ALIYU IDI HONG AT THE 52ND NATIONAL COUNCIL ON HEALTH: APRIL, 2009 AT THE AFFICENT, KANO, KANO STA
SPEECH OF THE HON. MINISTER OF STATE FOR HEALTH, DR ALIYU IDI HONG AT THE 52ND NATIONAL COUNCIL ON HEALTH:
APRIL, 2009 AT THE AFFICENT, KANO, KANO STATE.
P R O T O C O L
I am delighted to welcome you all to this 52nd National Council on Health which is the first my-self and my colleague, Hon Minister of Health Prof. Babatunde Osotimehin, OON will be participating in as Ministers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. This meeting is coming at a most auspicious time in our national and political life. The theme of this meeting; Meeting the Challenges of the Health MDGs in Nigeria is also most appropriate. This is because Health is at the heart of the Millennium Development Goals. And meeting the challenges of the Health MDGs is at the heart of meeting the challenges of MDGs globally.
2. The timing is auspicious for two important reasons namely: the World-wide economic crises and financial meltdown which means that our march towards the accelerated achievement of the Health MDGs is taking place at a time of great challenges; when financial resources are not only in crises and in decline but also not guaranteed. The depth and extent of this financial crises cannot be underestimated and has necessitated the just concluded G-20 Heads of Government Summit in London in which the heads of Government of the twenty leading economies of the world came together to discuss ways of stemming the world economic recession and bringing the economy of the world back on track. The rancour, outrage and outcome of that meeting including the attendant protests which sometimes turned violent show just how deep the crises run and how passionate people feel about its effect on their daily living. The name-calling, disharmony, confusion and discord again underscored that no-one has the answers and that it is not yet uhuru. These are facts that will have a lot of impact on financing of health MDGs world-wide as it also comes with added political challenges for the heads of Government at home on just how much they can commit to Overseas Development Assistant (ODA) and will also affect the attention and commitment towards the MDGs in developing countries such as ours. We must therefore necessarily re-focus, re-strategise and re-tool in order to rise to these new and emerging challenges in our already challenged circumstance. For this reason alone, this meeting is very critical.
3. In addition, the timing is also most auspicious due to the spate of epidemics and avoidable public health challenges we have been faced with in the recent past. An illustration can easily be done with the issue of CSM which remain with us and seem to continuously overwhelm our system despite the fact that this is not only preventable, it is also predictable. Issues such as this continue to underscore a greater challenge of our Health System. It is this greater challenge of the system that the present leadership in the Federal Ministry of Health is most mindful of and determined to tackle more strategically than have been done before. We want to institutionalize anticipation, prevention, response and not reaction. This is part of what has informed our decision to use the opportunity of this our first NCH to look at the challenges of the MDGs in order to meet it. It is our hope and prayer that by the special grace of God, this NCH is therefore a great opportunity and a timely decision that can only and will serve us well.
4. Achieving the MDGs is one of the critical elements that the President’s seven-point agenda mandates us to ensure. And as we are all already aware of, out of the eight goals of the MDGs, three (Goals 4, 5 and 6) are health specific and all the other five goals are health-related. Health is therefore at the heart of the MDGs and since the MDGs are critical to the seven point agenda, it therefore means that Health is not only at the Heart of the MDGs but Health MDGs are critical to the seven point agenda of the President. So without health, the MDGs can never be achieved and without Health MDGs, the President’s seven point agenda cannot be realised. This is again another important reason we have adopted this theme for our first ever National Council on Health.
5. Health MDGs and human capital development are inter-linked like the case of the egg and the chicken; it is difficult to say exactly which one comes first but we do know that without good health, every effort at human capital development will be a colossal failure. The ability to be economically productive will be impinged upon; children will not go to school and when they do go, will not get the maximum benefit of the education due to ill health. All these will result in illiteracy, poverty and hunger. One so affected cannot pursue any education or acquire skills for employment resulting again in ill-health and under-development. So ill-health, poverty and illiteracy form a vicious cycle which results in underdevelopment. The Health MDGs if achieved will address these issues thus resulting in human capital development. The direct inverse relationship between the Infant Mortality Rate (IMR), Under-5 Mortality Rate (U5MR) and Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) to the education and economic status of the mother is also noted here.
6. We are also mindful not to be the enfant-terrible of health-MDG worldwide as we may have inadvertently become in the case of Polio. Mindful of our size and population and our contribution to the worldwide IMR and MMR, we know again that without Nigeria, the MDGs cannot be achieved worldwide. We must therefore ensure that ours is not the generation that sets the world back in its march to achieve the Health MDGs worldwide. So we must seize the call of history to achieve the health MDGs in Nigeria at a time like this. Nigerians also are tired of excuses; they want action, action that can be measured in improved health outcomes for the generality of the populace.
7. We however cannot achieve the Health MDGs without forging and sustaining critical partnerships and alliances and that is why this gathering must be further strengthened. We are very grateful for your presence here today and also your ever prompt response each time we call on you. We will be calling on you as often as is necessary and I wish to use this opportunity on behalf of my colleague and myself to say thanks and to appeal to you to bear with us.
8. There have been challenges most of which remain. But we must not be daunted; instead we must see these as critical opportunities presented to us by God to be leaders in the generation that will make a difference and we do have no choice but to succeed. Failure is not an option at all. We recognise that the journey is far and the times are very difficult but we are committed, we are enthusiastic, and we are lucky we also have the appropriate political environment.
9. I have been careful not to go into specifics because my colleague, the Hon Minister, Prof. Babatunde Osotimehin will give the details of what we have agreed to do in order to arrive at our destination. I however must reiterate that we feel a high sense of duty and responsibility as the Ministers of Health to improve the quality of health services provided by our Health systems, improve the efficiency of service delivery, and to ensure equitable access to health care services and we are committeds toward building a responsible, responsive, reliable, result-oriented, and evidence-based health system in our march towards achieving the MDGs.
10. I do hope that we have been able to underscore the importance of actions required, and the urgency that is necessary to tackle the issues militating against our march towards the achievement of the Health MDGs and also respond to Mr. President’s marching orders to pull the health sector out of the woods. We really therefore do not have any time to loose, hence the theme and the urgency with which we are tackling these issues.
11. Your Excellency, the Governor of Kano State, Hon. Commissioners of Health, Permanent Secretaries, Directors, Development partners (Local and International), distinguished participants, ladies and gentlemen of the Press, Ladies and Gentlemen, I thank you all for your attention and I look forward to fruitful Council deliberations.
APRIL, 2009 AT THE AFFICENT, KANO, KANO STATE.
P R O T O C O L
I am delighted to welcome you all to this 52nd National Council on Health which is the first my-self and my colleague, Hon Minister of Health Prof. Babatunde Osotimehin, OON will be participating in as Ministers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. This meeting is coming at a most auspicious time in our national and political life. The theme of this meeting; Meeting the Challenges of the Health MDGs in Nigeria is also most appropriate. This is because Health is at the heart of the Millennium Development Goals. And meeting the challenges of the Health MDGs is at the heart of meeting the challenges of MDGs globally.
2. The timing is auspicious for two important reasons namely: the World-wide economic crises and financial meltdown which means that our march towards the accelerated achievement of the Health MDGs is taking place at a time of great challenges; when financial resources are not only in crises and in decline but also not guaranteed. The depth and extent of this financial crises cannot be underestimated and has necessitated the just concluded G-20 Heads of Government Summit in London in which the heads of Government of the twenty leading economies of the world came together to discuss ways of stemming the world economic recession and bringing the economy of the world back on track. The rancour, outrage and outcome of that meeting including the attendant protests which sometimes turned violent show just how deep the crises run and how passionate people feel about its effect on their daily living. The name-calling, disharmony, confusion and discord again underscored that no-one has the answers and that it is not yet uhuru. These are facts that will have a lot of impact on financing of health MDGs world-wide as it also comes with added political challenges for the heads of Government at home on just how much they can commit to Overseas Development Assistant (ODA) and will also affect the attention and commitment towards the MDGs in developing countries such as ours. We must therefore necessarily re-focus, re-strategise and re-tool in order to rise to these new and emerging challenges in our already challenged circumstance. For this reason alone, this meeting is very critical.
3. In addition, the timing is also most auspicious due to the spate of epidemics and avoidable public health challenges we have been faced with in the recent past. An illustration can easily be done with the issue of CSM which remain with us and seem to continuously overwhelm our system despite the fact that this is not only preventable, it is also predictable. Issues such as this continue to underscore a greater challenge of our Health System. It is this greater challenge of the system that the present leadership in the Federal Ministry of Health is most mindful of and determined to tackle more strategically than have been done before. We want to institutionalize anticipation, prevention, response and not reaction. This is part of what has informed our decision to use the opportunity of this our first NCH to look at the challenges of the MDGs in order to meet it. It is our hope and prayer that by the special grace of God, this NCH is therefore a great opportunity and a timely decision that can only and will serve us well.
4. Achieving the MDGs is one of the critical elements that the President’s seven-point agenda mandates us to ensure. And as we are all already aware of, out of the eight goals of the MDGs, three (Goals 4, 5 and 6) are health specific and all the other five goals are health-related. Health is therefore at the heart of the MDGs and since the MDGs are critical to the seven point agenda, it therefore means that Health is not only at the Heart of the MDGs but Health MDGs are critical to the seven point agenda of the President. So without health, the MDGs can never be achieved and without Health MDGs, the President’s seven point agenda cannot be realised. This is again another important reason we have adopted this theme for our first ever National Council on Health.
5. Health MDGs and human capital development are inter-linked like the case of the egg and the chicken; it is difficult to say exactly which one comes first but we do know that without good health, every effort at human capital development will be a colossal failure. The ability to be economically productive will be impinged upon; children will not go to school and when they do go, will not get the maximum benefit of the education due to ill health. All these will result in illiteracy, poverty and hunger. One so affected cannot pursue any education or acquire skills for employment resulting again in ill-health and under-development. So ill-health, poverty and illiteracy form a vicious cycle which results in underdevelopment. The Health MDGs if achieved will address these issues thus resulting in human capital development. The direct inverse relationship between the Infant Mortality Rate (IMR), Under-5 Mortality Rate (U5MR) and Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) to the education and economic status of the mother is also noted here.
6. We are also mindful not to be the enfant-terrible of health-MDG worldwide as we may have inadvertently become in the case of Polio. Mindful of our size and population and our contribution to the worldwide IMR and MMR, we know again that without Nigeria, the MDGs cannot be achieved worldwide. We must therefore ensure that ours is not the generation that sets the world back in its march to achieve the Health MDGs worldwide. So we must seize the call of history to achieve the health MDGs in Nigeria at a time like this. Nigerians also are tired of excuses; they want action, action that can be measured in improved health outcomes for the generality of the populace.
7. We however cannot achieve the Health MDGs without forging and sustaining critical partnerships and alliances and that is why this gathering must be further strengthened. We are very grateful for your presence here today and also your ever prompt response each time we call on you. We will be calling on you as often as is necessary and I wish to use this opportunity on behalf of my colleague and myself to say thanks and to appeal to you to bear with us.
8. There have been challenges most of which remain. But we must not be daunted; instead we must see these as critical opportunities presented to us by God to be leaders in the generation that will make a difference and we do have no choice but to succeed. Failure is not an option at all. We recognise that the journey is far and the times are very difficult but we are committed, we are enthusiastic, and we are lucky we also have the appropriate political environment.
9. I have been careful not to go into specifics because my colleague, the Hon Minister, Prof. Babatunde Osotimehin will give the details of what we have agreed to do in order to arrive at our destination. I however must reiterate that we feel a high sense of duty and responsibility as the Ministers of Health to improve the quality of health services provided by our Health systems, improve the efficiency of service delivery, and to ensure equitable access to health care services and we are committeds toward building a responsible, responsive, reliable, result-oriented, and evidence-based health system in our march towards achieving the MDGs.
10. I do hope that we have been able to underscore the importance of actions required, and the urgency that is necessary to tackle the issues militating against our march towards the achievement of the Health MDGs and also respond to Mr. President’s marching orders to pull the health sector out of the woods. We really therefore do not have any time to loose, hence the theme and the urgency with which we are tackling these issues.
11. Your Excellency, the Governor of Kano State, Hon. Commissioners of Health, Permanent Secretaries, Directors, Development partners (Local and International), distinguished participants, ladies and gentlemen of the Press, Ladies and Gentlemen, I thank you all for your attention and I look forward to fruitful Council deliberations.
ADDRESS BY: PROFESSOR BABATUNDE OSOTIMEHIN, OON THE HONOURABLE MINISTER OF HEALTH AT THE 52ND NATIONAL COUNCIL ON HEALTH (NCH) MEETING HELD ON APRI
1. Distinguished delegates, I am very delighted to welcome you to this 52nd National Council on Health (NCH) Meeting. You would recall that the last NCH 51st took place in November 19-23, 2007, in Lagos, during which we took the decision to hold the 52nd NCH Meeting in Kano, Kano State in May 2008. We regret that due to circumstances beyond our control, partly due to the very challenging and unsavoury developments at the leadership level of the Federal Ministry of Health, for most of the year 2008, we did not have the necessary and sufficient conditions to hold the 52nd NCH as earlier planned, until now. We thank God that we are here at last. We remain also very grateful to the Kano State Government, through the Kano State Ministry of Health for their steadfastness and understanding in (still) keeping fate with our collective decisions to host this meeting at this time period. On behalf of the Hon. Minister of State for Health and the rest of us, I say a BIG thank you to the Kano State Government. The status reports of our state of readiness for this meeting, which was given to me yesterday on my arrival, has played glowing tributes and commendations of the excellent and elaborate preparations made by the Kano State Government for this NCH meeting.
2. In February, during our maiden meeting as Ministers of Health with the Hon. Commissioners for Health, I highlighted the need to revitalize the nation’s Health System. At that meeting, we discussed various issues relating to the state of the health system which we all agreed is in dire need of fixing. I intimated you of the agenda and direction of the Federal Ministry of Health in the new dispensation to achieve a people-oriented and responsive health system that will achieve the Human Capital Development Program of Mr. President’s 7-Point Agenda. You would recall that we put before you as our major partner in health development in Nigeria, two very important issues for discussion and inputs: The Agenda for Health 2009; and the National Strategic Health Development Plan.
3. The Agenda for Health 2009 has the following strategic thrusts which were discussed in the group session during the meeting: Enhancing the Stewardship Role of the Ministry; Revitalizing the Health System with Emphasis on Delivery of quality health services through Primary Health Care and strengthening referrals with Secondary and Tertiary Institutions to reduce the disease burden and improve the health status of Nigerians; Enhancing Financial Resource Mobilization through the expansion of the NHIS and other Private Public Partnership (PPP) arrangements; Enhancing the Coordinating Role of the Ministry and its interface with States, Local Governments and Donors; Human Resources for Health; Strategic Information Management & Research; Communication and Public Relations Management. I believe the discussions were very rich and implementation of some of the recommendations will enhance the efforts we are all making to impact positively on our health system.
4. As we intimated you during our last meeting, the Minister of State for Health and I feel very strongly about interacting more closely with the States, hence the creation of the State Coordination Unit in my office. Also, because of the great potentials in working with the private sector, which are yet to be tapped, I have also created a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Unit in my office. If we all, at federal, state and local government levels, unify our efforts with those of the private sector, I believe the health system will be strengthened.
5. We also intimated you about the National Strategic Health Development Plan (NSHDP) which would serve as the ONE Reference Plan for all - with an associated consolidated national health investment plan. I have since inaugurated the Technical Working Group (TWG) and they have been working tirelessly towards the mandate given. Presently, as we meet, the TGW is also meeting in Abuja to develop the Zero-Draft of the National Strategic Health Development Framework. At the end of the process work, a National Strategic Health Development Plan, consisting of three (3) parts would have been produced: indicating the Priority Areas; Goals; Strategic Objectives; Strategies; and Activities including various stakeholders’ roles and responsibilities; Monitoring Evaluation indicators; costing/health investment dimensions and timelines for deliverables between now and 2015. As we have agreed, I shall be holding our next meeting with the Hon Commissioners in Abuja on April 27/28, 2009 to look specifically the draft NSHDP framework. We shall endeavors to circulate copies of the framework ahead of time to ensure meaningful discussion. While I recognize the huge demand and commitment of your time, I believe it is important we set the framework right now in order to get on with producing the respective health plans for our collective accountability for health development in this country.
6. The theme of our deliberations at this National Council on Health meeting is on “Meeting the Challenges of Health-Related Millennium Development Goals”. This is unquestionably an appropriate for these times in our health development. Let me take this opportunity to remind ourselves once again of the eight Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) endorsed at the UN Millennium Summit in September 2000, by 147 countries (Nigeria inclusive) for poverty reduction and social progress to be attained by the year 2015. These are to: (1) Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger, (2) Achieve universal primary education, (3) Promote gender equality and empower women, (4) Reduce child mortality, (5) Improve maternal health, (6) Combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases, (7) Ensure environmental sustainability and (8) Develop a global partnership for development. As we can see, out of the eight goals, three of the goals (4, 5 and 6) are directly health-related while three others (1, 7 and 8) are health and nutrition dependent.
7. We are six years down the line to the year 2015 when we are supposed to have achieved the MDGs. How far have we gone to realizing these goals? How have we assessed ourselves? Progress in achieving the health millennium development goals has been quite minimal as shown below:
a. Infant mortality rate was 97 deaths/1,000 live births in 2000 and appears to have worsened to 113 deaths/1,000 live births, as against the MDG 4 targeted improvement to 30 deaths/1,000 live births by 2015.
b. Under 5 mortality rate was 230 per 1,000 in 1990; 191/1,000 in 2006 and would require a 60% reduction to bring to 77 per 1,000 in 2015 in order to achieve a 1/3rd reduction from the 1990 level and meet the MDGs goal.
c. Maternal mortality rate was 1,000 per 100,000 in 1990; and 800 per 100,000 in 2006 and would require about 70% reduction to bring it to 250 per 100,000 in order to achieve 704 per 100,000 live births, a 1/3rd reduction from 1990 in order to meet the MDG goal for maternal mortality.
8. Health, we all know, is central to the achievement of the MDGs and requires major improvements in health systems and health outcomes across the country. It is said that “health is wealth” and “a healthy country is a wealthy country”. It is therefore very important that we all work towards improving our health status in this country. Indeed, achieving the health MDGs is a complex and challenging task but it is a task that must be done. Some countries have made impressive gains and are "on track," but many more are falling behind. The situation is not encouraging for goals related to lowering infant and maternal mortality as well as infectious diseases, especially in sub-Saharan Africa (which, of course includes Nigeria). This is 2009, where can we say we are in realizing these health specific MDG goals? We need to know where we are and where we are going.
9. Just recently we all witnessed the March 2009 National Immunization Plus Days (NIPDs) which took place between 27th and 30th March in all the States of the Federation. Mr. President flagged off the Polio Vaccination campaign in Abuja and all the State Governors also flagged it off in their various States. These NIPDs are dedicated days when every child aged 0-5 years is expected to receive two (2) drops of Oral Polio Vaccines (OPV) irrespective of previous vaccination status, as well as the administration of other high impact child survival interventions. The flag-off by His Excellency, Mr. President came at a time when the commitment given by the administration to the global polio eradication initiative activities in Nigeria is being transformed to improved program performance; and obviously the highest moral and political boost to the polio campaign in the country. The campaign will save thousands of Nigerian children from avoidable deformities and deaths; a campaign for the survival and development of our children who are the future of this nation.
10. The number of polio endemic countries has reduced from over 125 to only 4 countries by 2008: Nigeria, Pakistan, Afghanistan and India. Nigeria is the only country in the world with all the three types of wild polio viruses in circulation. Although Nigeria has made considerable progress towards achieving the interruption of wild polio virus transmission, there are challenges that remain. In 2008 the country experienced an upsurge in cases linked to sporadic cases reported in some of our neighboring countries (Niger, Benin, Togo, Ghana, Burkina-Faso and Mali). So, the world community has become more worried that we are now serving as exporters of the polio virus to our neighbors. Beside the global concern, Nigerian children continue to be paralyzed due to the virus. In 2008, 806 Nigerian children were paralyzed or deformed by Polio disease. That is nearly three times as many as the year before! Just two drops of Oral Polio Vaccine administered at least four times to each of these children would have prevented these overwhelming deformities and, sometimes deaths, among the children so affected and spared their families the hardship. Already, in 2009, at least 68 children have been affected and 18 of them paralyzed as of February 11, 2009. In previous years, the cases were mostly concentrated in the north. Now they are occurring as far south as Ogun, Lagos and other states.
11. Nigeria joined a synchronized, cross-border immunization campaign in February 2009 in which 40 million children were vaccinated; 25 million of those children were Nigerians. This round targets over 47 million children below the age of five (5) years. This campaign demonstrates the organization and commitment of thousands of healthcare workers, volunteers, community organizers and parents. Eradicating Polio is also an act of international citizenship. It is the duty of all to eradicate polio. If we all - governments, community leaders, the media, teachers, parents and other partners - do our part, we could stop polio in its tracks, NOW! You may recall the thrust of the collective commitment to polio eradication, routine immunization and primary health care at the Governors’ Forum during the February 2009 visit of Mr. Bill Gates in order to further translate our desire and determination to interrupt wild polio virus in Nigeria and bequeath a legacy of optimal health to our children. I believe that the momentum generated from such a consideration will drive the campaign to unprecedented levels of coverage in terms of numbers and quality.
12. I believe that the challenges of meeting the health-related MDGs include: (i) Getting national governments to increase health spending significantly (ii) Developing better policies toward households as producers and demanders of care (iii) Improving health service delivery (iv) Strengthening core public health functions (v) Getting additional financial resources in a sustainable way, and (vi) Coordination of donor actions. All these fall within the purview of key thematic areas such as Healthcare Financing, Service Delivery, Communications/Health Promotion, Knowledge Management, Donor coordination, Monitoring & Evaluation/Health Management Information System, Logistics, Research, Public-Private Partnerships, Governance/Stewardship, Social Development and the very critical issue of Human Resources for Health.
13. As we all know, accessible, affordable, acceptable and accountable qualitative healthcare delivery depends on various components (i.e. infrastructure, equipment, etc.) but most importantly on human resources. The human resources for health play a key role in our prospects of achieving the health-related millennium development goals. It is in recognition of importance of this component that I take a pause at this juncture, to propose that we convene an Extraordinary National Council on Health primarily to deal with HUMAN RESOURCES FOR HEALTH with all the complex issues involved with a view to finding lasting and sustainable solutions to the challenges we face year in year out.
14. During the course of this Council meeting, there will be group discussions on the theme of the meeting which was given by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on MDG, Mrs. Amina Ibrahim. We need to brainstorm and find solutions to which we all shall commit ourselves to implementing in order to ensure their realization. At the end of the discussions, we should be able to come up with concrete decisions, resolutions and time-bound action plans for accelerating the achievement of the health MDGs by 2015. It is my hope that at the end of this Council meeting, we shall definitely move the improvement of our health system and the health status of our people forward thereby realizing our national health goal and the objectives of our reforms.
15. Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, I am hopeful that this Council meeting will pay attention to the current situations of all the issues to be discussed and make general recommendations on the best way forward.
16. I wish you all fruitful deliberations and God bless. Thank you.
Professor Babatunde Osotimehin, OON
Honourable Minister of Health
April 6, 2009.
2. In February, during our maiden meeting as Ministers of Health with the Hon. Commissioners for Health, I highlighted the need to revitalize the nation’s Health System. At that meeting, we discussed various issues relating to the state of the health system which we all agreed is in dire need of fixing. I intimated you of the agenda and direction of the Federal Ministry of Health in the new dispensation to achieve a people-oriented and responsive health system that will achieve the Human Capital Development Program of Mr. President’s 7-Point Agenda. You would recall that we put before you as our major partner in health development in Nigeria, two very important issues for discussion and inputs: The Agenda for Health 2009; and the National Strategic Health Development Plan.
3. The Agenda for Health 2009 has the following strategic thrusts which were discussed in the group session during the meeting: Enhancing the Stewardship Role of the Ministry; Revitalizing the Health System with Emphasis on Delivery of quality health services through Primary Health Care and strengthening referrals with Secondary and Tertiary Institutions to reduce the disease burden and improve the health status of Nigerians; Enhancing Financial Resource Mobilization through the expansion of the NHIS and other Private Public Partnership (PPP) arrangements; Enhancing the Coordinating Role of the Ministry and its interface with States, Local Governments and Donors; Human Resources for Health; Strategic Information Management & Research; Communication and Public Relations Management. I believe the discussions were very rich and implementation of some of the recommendations will enhance the efforts we are all making to impact positively on our health system.
4. As we intimated you during our last meeting, the Minister of State for Health and I feel very strongly about interacting more closely with the States, hence the creation of the State Coordination Unit in my office. Also, because of the great potentials in working with the private sector, which are yet to be tapped, I have also created a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Unit in my office. If we all, at federal, state and local government levels, unify our efforts with those of the private sector, I believe the health system will be strengthened.
5. We also intimated you about the National Strategic Health Development Plan (NSHDP) which would serve as the ONE Reference Plan for all - with an associated consolidated national health investment plan. I have since inaugurated the Technical Working Group (TWG) and they have been working tirelessly towards the mandate given. Presently, as we meet, the TGW is also meeting in Abuja to develop the Zero-Draft of the National Strategic Health Development Framework. At the end of the process work, a National Strategic Health Development Plan, consisting of three (3) parts would have been produced: indicating the Priority Areas; Goals; Strategic Objectives; Strategies; and Activities including various stakeholders’ roles and responsibilities; Monitoring Evaluation indicators; costing/health investment dimensions and timelines for deliverables between now and 2015. As we have agreed, I shall be holding our next meeting with the Hon Commissioners in Abuja on April 27/28, 2009 to look specifically the draft NSHDP framework. We shall endeavors to circulate copies of the framework ahead of time to ensure meaningful discussion. While I recognize the huge demand and commitment of your time, I believe it is important we set the framework right now in order to get on with producing the respective health plans for our collective accountability for health development in this country.
6. The theme of our deliberations at this National Council on Health meeting is on “Meeting the Challenges of Health-Related Millennium Development Goals”. This is unquestionably an appropriate for these times in our health development. Let me take this opportunity to remind ourselves once again of the eight Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) endorsed at the UN Millennium Summit in September 2000, by 147 countries (Nigeria inclusive) for poverty reduction and social progress to be attained by the year 2015. These are to: (1) Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger, (2) Achieve universal primary education, (3) Promote gender equality and empower women, (4) Reduce child mortality, (5) Improve maternal health, (6) Combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases, (7) Ensure environmental sustainability and (8) Develop a global partnership for development. As we can see, out of the eight goals, three of the goals (4, 5 and 6) are directly health-related while three others (1, 7 and 8) are health and nutrition dependent.
7. We are six years down the line to the year 2015 when we are supposed to have achieved the MDGs. How far have we gone to realizing these goals? How have we assessed ourselves? Progress in achieving the health millennium development goals has been quite minimal as shown below:
a. Infant mortality rate was 97 deaths/1,000 live births in 2000 and appears to have worsened to 113 deaths/1,000 live births, as against the MDG 4 targeted improvement to 30 deaths/1,000 live births by 2015.
b. Under 5 mortality rate was 230 per 1,000 in 1990; 191/1,000 in 2006 and would require a 60% reduction to bring to 77 per 1,000 in 2015 in order to achieve a 1/3rd reduction from the 1990 level and meet the MDGs goal.
c. Maternal mortality rate was 1,000 per 100,000 in 1990; and 800 per 100,000 in 2006 and would require about 70% reduction to bring it to 250 per 100,000 in order to achieve 704 per 100,000 live births, a 1/3rd reduction from 1990 in order to meet the MDG goal for maternal mortality.
8. Health, we all know, is central to the achievement of the MDGs and requires major improvements in health systems and health outcomes across the country. It is said that “health is wealth” and “a healthy country is a wealthy country”. It is therefore very important that we all work towards improving our health status in this country. Indeed, achieving the health MDGs is a complex and challenging task but it is a task that must be done. Some countries have made impressive gains and are "on track," but many more are falling behind. The situation is not encouraging for goals related to lowering infant and maternal mortality as well as infectious diseases, especially in sub-Saharan Africa (which, of course includes Nigeria). This is 2009, where can we say we are in realizing these health specific MDG goals? We need to know where we are and where we are going.
9. Just recently we all witnessed the March 2009 National Immunization Plus Days (NIPDs) which took place between 27th and 30th March in all the States of the Federation. Mr. President flagged off the Polio Vaccination campaign in Abuja and all the State Governors also flagged it off in their various States. These NIPDs are dedicated days when every child aged 0-5 years is expected to receive two (2) drops of Oral Polio Vaccines (OPV) irrespective of previous vaccination status, as well as the administration of other high impact child survival interventions. The flag-off by His Excellency, Mr. President came at a time when the commitment given by the administration to the global polio eradication initiative activities in Nigeria is being transformed to improved program performance; and obviously the highest moral and political boost to the polio campaign in the country. The campaign will save thousands of Nigerian children from avoidable deformities and deaths; a campaign for the survival and development of our children who are the future of this nation.
10. The number of polio endemic countries has reduced from over 125 to only 4 countries by 2008: Nigeria, Pakistan, Afghanistan and India. Nigeria is the only country in the world with all the three types of wild polio viruses in circulation. Although Nigeria has made considerable progress towards achieving the interruption of wild polio virus transmission, there are challenges that remain. In 2008 the country experienced an upsurge in cases linked to sporadic cases reported in some of our neighboring countries (Niger, Benin, Togo, Ghana, Burkina-Faso and Mali). So, the world community has become more worried that we are now serving as exporters of the polio virus to our neighbors. Beside the global concern, Nigerian children continue to be paralyzed due to the virus. In 2008, 806 Nigerian children were paralyzed or deformed by Polio disease. That is nearly three times as many as the year before! Just two drops of Oral Polio Vaccine administered at least four times to each of these children would have prevented these overwhelming deformities and, sometimes deaths, among the children so affected and spared their families the hardship. Already, in 2009, at least 68 children have been affected and 18 of them paralyzed as of February 11, 2009. In previous years, the cases were mostly concentrated in the north. Now they are occurring as far south as Ogun, Lagos and other states.
11. Nigeria joined a synchronized, cross-border immunization campaign in February 2009 in which 40 million children were vaccinated; 25 million of those children were Nigerians. This round targets over 47 million children below the age of five (5) years. This campaign demonstrates the organization and commitment of thousands of healthcare workers, volunteers, community organizers and parents. Eradicating Polio is also an act of international citizenship. It is the duty of all to eradicate polio. If we all - governments, community leaders, the media, teachers, parents and other partners - do our part, we could stop polio in its tracks, NOW! You may recall the thrust of the collective commitment to polio eradication, routine immunization and primary health care at the Governors’ Forum during the February 2009 visit of Mr. Bill Gates in order to further translate our desire and determination to interrupt wild polio virus in Nigeria and bequeath a legacy of optimal health to our children. I believe that the momentum generated from such a consideration will drive the campaign to unprecedented levels of coverage in terms of numbers and quality.
12. I believe that the challenges of meeting the health-related MDGs include: (i) Getting national governments to increase health spending significantly (ii) Developing better policies toward households as producers and demanders of care (iii) Improving health service delivery (iv) Strengthening core public health functions (v) Getting additional financial resources in a sustainable way, and (vi) Coordination of donor actions. All these fall within the purview of key thematic areas such as Healthcare Financing, Service Delivery, Communications/Health Promotion, Knowledge Management, Donor coordination, Monitoring & Evaluation/Health Management Information System, Logistics, Research, Public-Private Partnerships, Governance/Stewardship, Social Development and the very critical issue of Human Resources for Health.
13. As we all know, accessible, affordable, acceptable and accountable qualitative healthcare delivery depends on various components (i.e. infrastructure, equipment, etc.) but most importantly on human resources. The human resources for health play a key role in our prospects of achieving the health-related millennium development goals. It is in recognition of importance of this component that I take a pause at this juncture, to propose that we convene an Extraordinary National Council on Health primarily to deal with HUMAN RESOURCES FOR HEALTH with all the complex issues involved with a view to finding lasting and sustainable solutions to the challenges we face year in year out.
14. During the course of this Council meeting, there will be group discussions on the theme of the meeting which was given by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on MDG, Mrs. Amina Ibrahim. We need to brainstorm and find solutions to which we all shall commit ourselves to implementing in order to ensure their realization. At the end of the discussions, we should be able to come up with concrete decisions, resolutions and time-bound action plans for accelerating the achievement of the health MDGs by 2015. It is my hope that at the end of this Council meeting, we shall definitely move the improvement of our health system and the health status of our people forward thereby realizing our national health goal and the objectives of our reforms.
15. Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, I am hopeful that this Council meeting will pay attention to the current situations of all the issues to be discussed and make general recommendations on the best way forward.
16. I wish you all fruitful deliberations and God bless. Thank you.
Professor Babatunde Osotimehin, OON
Honourable Minister of Health
April 6, 2009.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)