The Critical Role of Reliable Electricity in Nigeria’s Healthcare System: A Call for Collaborative Action
Access to reliable electricity is not merely a convenience; it is a fundamental pillar upon which a functioning and resilient healthcare system rests. In Nigeria, the lack of consistent power supply poses a significant challenge to the effective delivery of healthcare services, impacting everything from patient care to operational efficiency. The World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, Mr. Mathew Verghis, underscored this critical need, emphasizing that stable electricity is essential for bolstering the resilience and efficiency of Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure. His call to action, delivered at the first National Stakeholders’ Dialogue on Power in the Health Sector in Abuja, highlighted the urgent need for collaborative efforts to address this pressing issue. Themed “Powering Health through Public-Private Synergy: Energising Nigeria’s Health Sector for the Future,” the dialogue brought together key players from government, international organizations, the private sector, and civil society to explore innovative solutions and forge a path towards a sustainably powered healthcare system.
Verghis highlighted several ongoing World Bank initiatives designed to electrify healthcare facilities across Nigeria. These include the Nigeria Electrification Programme, which has successfully brought electricity to 100 health centers and two university teaching hospitals; the IMPACT Project, a $650 million initiative aimed at improving immunization and maternal-child health services through the provision of renewable energy to over 2,000 primary healthcare centers; and the DARES Project, a $750 million program focused on expanding access to electricity through distributed solar rooftop systems, currently being piloted in Lagos State. Early results from these programs demonstrate the transformative potential of reliable power, showcasing improvements in working conditions for medical staff, increased patient access to care, and a reduction in infant and maternal mortality rates. The World Bank’s continued commitment to supporting Nigeria in overcoming its power challenges underscores the importance of this issue in achieving broader development goals.
The Nigerian government echoed the World Bank’s sentiments, recognizing the detrimental impact of unreliable electricity on healthcare delivery. Mr. Mahmuda Mamman, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Power, acknowledged the threat posed by inconsistent power supply, highlighting the delays in essential procedures and the increased operational costs it imposes on healthcare facilities. He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to providing uninterrupted, clean, and affordable power to all health institutions, outlining key initiatives such as the Nigerian Energy Transition Plan, the implementation of decentralized solar power systems, rural electrification programs, and energy efficiency programs for public buildings. These efforts reflect the government’s recognition of the crucial role of reliable power in achieving its healthcare objectives.
Ms. Daju Kachollom, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, further emphasized the importance of the dialogue, aligning it with the government’s mission to ensure quality healthcare for all Nigerians, irrespective of their geographical location. She poignantly highlighted the human dimension of this issue, stating that “Power in health is not just an infrastructure issue, it’s a matter of life, dignity, and hope.” Kachollom announced the forthcoming signing of a multi-stakeholder compact, a landmark agreement uniting government bodies, development partners, the private sector, civil society organizations, and innovators in a shared commitment to ensuring that no healthcare facility in Nigeria is left without access to sustainable and reliable power. This collaborative approach signals a significant step towards achieving universal access to quality healthcare.
The National Stakeholders’ Dialogue serves as a vital platform for exploring and implementing sustainable energy solutions for Nigeria’s healthcare sector. Discussions focused on innovative financing mechanisms, scaling climate-smart energy solutions, strengthening governance frameworks, and prioritizing the needs of rural and underserved communities. The dialogue participants recognized the need for a multi-faceted approach, encompassing technological advancements, policy reforms, and financial investments, to effectively address the power deficit in the healthcare sector. The emphasis on public-private partnerships highlights the importance of leveraging the expertise and resources of both sectors to achieve sustainable progress.
The quest to provide reliable electricity to healthcare facilities across Nigeria represents a significant undertaking that requires a concerted and collaborative effort. The challenges are undeniable, but so is the potential for transformative change. By prioritizing investments in sustainable energy solutions, strengthening partnerships across sectors, and focusing on innovative approaches, Nigeria can overcome its power challenges and pave the way for a healthier and more equitable future for all its citizens. The commitment demonstrated by the government, international organizations, and the private sector provides a strong foundation for progress, signaling a shared determination to ensure that access to reliable electricity becomes a reality for every healthcare facility in Nigeria. This, in turn, will empower healthcare professionals to deliver quality care, improve patient outcomes, and ultimately, save lives.
