Former Nigeria’s President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan has remembered Doctor Stella Adadevoh, who lost her life in the 2014 Ebola outbreak in the country.
Jonathan, who spoke at the maiden edition of the Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion Health Summit in Abuja, acknowledged the bravery of the late Doctor and other healthcare workers that similarly lost their lives.
Jonathan, who spoke through the former Executive Secretary of Nigeria Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC), Professor John-Kennedy Opara, referred to the passage of the National Health Act which he signed into law during his administration, adding that it had significantly improved healthcare access for millions Nigerians.
“The National Health Act 2014 established a framework for the provision of essential health services, the management of health resources, and the protection of patients’ rights.
“Today, over 10 million Nigerians across our various states have access to health insurance provided by the various state social health insurance schemes.”
He called on the Anglican Church to spearhead health insurance enrollment and bridge disparities in healthcare access.
He called on faith-based organisations to leverage their community influence to advocate for equitable healthcare policies and foster partnerships with both the government and private sector.
“The Church must harness its platforms and resources to lead a transformative health initiative that ensures that no Nigerian is left behind in the quest for quality, affordable healthcare.”
The Primate of All Nigeria Anglican Church, Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, recalled the Church’s historical role in pioneering healthcare in Nigeria, saying that the foundational efforts had resulted in establishing clinics and hospitals since the 19th century.
He called for a renewed commitment to comprehensive healthcare, blending physical, mental, and spiritual well-being in alignment with Biblical teachings and modern health standards.
According to him, there is the urgent need for the Church to address Nigeria’s healthcare challenges, exacerbated by corruption and inadequate government response.
The Primate proposed a series of strategic initiatives, including the establishment of the Church of Nigeria Health Commission to streamline and standardise healthcare services.
He also called for the establishment of a Health Maintenance Organisation (HMO) to cater to the healthcare needs of Nigerians.
He advocated the development of pharmaceutical production and a fellowship for healthcare professionals to bolster the Church’s medical outreach.
Ndukuba urged Christian healthcare professionals to seize this “Kairos moment” for impactful service.
This was even as the Chairman of the National Steering Committee, Peter Nmadu emphasised the importance of healthcare in the church’s mission, acknowledging the challenges faced, including recent health crises and the need for a coordinated response.
He expressed gratitude to the church leadership and participants, urging collective effort towards a healthier future for the church and society.
