Abuja, Feb. 24, 2026 — Nigeria has signaled a strategic shift toward greater independence in healthcare delivery, as the Federal Government reiterates its resolve to reduce reliance on foreign funding while strengthening international partnerships.
The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Iziaq Adekunle Salako, made this position clear during a high-level meeting with the Spanish Ambassador to Nigeria, Felix Costales Artieda, who visited alongside officials from Spain’s development agency.
Addressing concerns over evolving global health financing, Salako stressed that while international support remains valuable, Nigeria must take primary responsibility for safeguarding the health of its population.
“The future of our healthcare system lies in our ability to lead, invest, and sustain it ourselves,” he stated.
Reform Agenda Gains Momentum
Central to this vision is the health sector transformation drive under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, anchored on the National Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative. The programme is designed to reposition the sector through coordinated planning, improved funding structures, and expanded local capacity.
The minister emphasized that technology transfer and domestic production of medical supplies are key priorities, aligning with ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare value chain.
Expanding Care and Inclusion
Highlighting progress in specialized healthcare, Salako pointed to targeted interventions addressing obstetrics fistula and gynecological conditions. He noted that dedicated institutions now offer free treatment and reintegration services, reflecting the government’s commitment to inclusive healthcare access.
Spain Commits to Continued Support
Speaking for the visiting delegation, Anton Leis of the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation outlined Spain’s contributions to Nigeria’s health system, including collaborations with UNICEF and UNFPA in tackling polio and harmful practices such as female genital mutilation.
He disclosed that over €1.1 million has been invested in initiatives aimed at improving healthcare delivery and strengthening Nigeria’s pharmaceutical and medical production sectors.
Leis also endorsed Nigeria’s coordinated, sector-wide approach, describing it as a strong framework for achieving long-term impact.
Renewed Bilateral Engagement
Permanent Secretary Daju Kachollom reaffirmed the enduring relationship between Nigeria and Spain, noting that existing agreements signed in 2022 and 2025 provide a solid foundation for expanded cooperation.
The engagement underscores Nigeria’s dual approach—building internal capacity while leveraging strategic international partnerships—to create a more resilient and self-sustaining healthcare system.