The Federal Government has released the 2025 National Health Facility Survey (NHFS), a comprehensive assessment of healthcare service delivery across Nigeria. Dr Iziak Salako, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, disclosed that the survey revealed widespread availability of maternal and reproductive health services, including family planning, counselling, and delivery services in about 70 per cent of public health facilities. Vaccination services were accessible in roughly half of the assessed facilities, with most vaccines under the National Immunisation Programme available. Child growth monitoring services were also widely present, supporting nutrition and early health intervention.
Salako noted that digital health technology is being leveraged to improve access, allowing doctors in cities like Abuja to consult patients in remote areas such as Damaturu. The government plans to increase the Basic Health Care Provision Fund from one per cent to two per cent of consolidated revenue, pending National Assembly approval. Expansion of private health insurance and improved health literacy were highlighted as key strategies to reduce illness and facility burden. Adeyemi Adeniran, Statistician-General of the Federation, represented by David Babalola of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), affirmed the report's role in guiding policy through evidence-based data. The survey was conducted by NBS with technical support from the World Bank and in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.
Dr Iziak Salako's emphasis on raising the health fund to two per cent of consolidated revenue exposes how little Nigeria has prioritised public health—even after multiple survey cycles. If 50 per cent vaccine availability is progress, then the system is still operating at bare minimum. Nigerians should question why, despite data from 2016, 2019, and 2023 surveys, funding remains below target. Real change hinges not on more reports, but on political will to release promised funds.
