By Alexander Chiejina, Nigeria Health Watch

Driving Solutions for Nigeria's Health Financing Challenges

During the 8th Nigeria Family Planning Conference, experts spotlighted the stark reality of health financing in Nigeria. With only 5% of the 2024 national budget allocated to health and less than 1% dedicated to family planning commodities, the underfunding poses a significant barrier to achieving equitable and sustainable healthcare outcomes.

The panel stressed the urgent need to prioritize investment in family planning, highlighting its pivotal role in improving health outcomes, reducing maternal mortality, and f

ostering economic growth. "This funding gap directly impacts access to essential healthcare," one expert noted, urging stakeholders at all levels to advocate for increased allocations.

A key takeaway from the discussion was the importance of fostering robust public-private partnerships. Panelists emphasized the need for collaboration with financial and technical organizations to amplify awareness and expand family planning interventions. By leveraging the strengths of both sectors, Nigeria can scale up access to critical family planning services, ensuring no one is left behind.

The engaging dialogue underscored the collective responsibility of stakeholders to address these challenges, with a shared commitment to advancing Nigeria’s family planning agenda. By aligning resources and efforts, the nation can pave the way for transformative health outcomes and sustainable development.

Stay tuned for more community-driven, community-inspired reporting from the 8th Nigerian Family Planning Conference, taking place December 3–6, 2024.