HFN’s sustained advocacy efforts have yielded a significant policy milestone with the successful implementation of the Executive Order on the removal of Value Added Tax (VAT) and import duties on Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs).

The Healthcare Federation of Nigeria (HFN) has announced the commencement of activities to celebrate its 10th Anniversary in 2025, marking a decade of transformative impact on Nigeria’s healthcare sector. The milestone will be commemorated at the HFN Annual Conference 2025, scheduled to hold on February 27–28, 2025.

The organization disclosed this at a press conference on Wednesday, December 18, where it outlined an array of activities planned to mark the milestone anniversary. It also unveiled the theme for the 2025 Annual Conference: “Expanding Access to Quality Healthcare: Transforming Nigeria through Innovation, Partnership, and Sustainability.”

The press conference was attended by several key HFN officials and members, including Dr. Pamela Ajayi, President of the HFN; Mrs. Chinyere Okorocha, Co-Chair of the HFN Annual Conference Planning Committee; Dr. Leke Oshunniyi, Chairman of the Health and Managed Care Association of Nigeria (HMCAN); Dr. Itunu Akinware, Managing Director of Medbury Medical Services; and Mr. Ayodeji Oni, Executive Secretary of HFN.

Speaking at the press conference, the President of HFN, Dr. Pamela Ajayi, discussed the federation’s mission and the remarkable progress made over the past decade. She explained that HFN was established in 2015 with the goal of supporting the achievement of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by activating the private sector. "HFN has created a platform that bridges the divide between public and private sectors in healthcare and fosters collaboration to transform the state of health systems in Nigeria," she said. Dr. Ajayi expressed that as the 10th anniversary approaches, HFN is proud of the progress made but remains committed to pushing for further improvements in the healthcare system.

Dr. Ajayi reflected on the federation’s key achievements, acknowledging the collective efforts of HFN’s members and partners in advancing the healthcare agenda in Nigeria. "Over the last decade, we have stood as a champion for advocacy, partnerships, and innovation," she remarked. She highlighted that HFN’s consistent engagement with policymakers and its focus on addressing critical healthcare challenges have led to tangible improvements in the country’s healthcare sector. Despite these strides, Dr. Ajayi stressed that there is still much work to be done. "This is a moment to celebrate the strides we have made, but it is also a time to reflect on the work that still lies ahead," she added.

Looking forward to the next decade, Dr. Ajayi reaffirmed HFN’s commitment to building a resilient and sustainable healthcare system. "As we enter this new decade, we remain committed to building a resilient healthcare system that is equitable, sustainable, and accessible to all Nigerians," she stated. Dr. Ajayi emphasized that HFN will continue to drive innovation, foster stronger partnerships, and advocate for reforms that will shape the future of healthcare in Nigeria. She concluded by calling for renewed efforts across the sector, saying, "This anniversary is a call to action for all of us—to redouble our efforts, inspire new collaborations, and collectively work towards achieving Universal Health Coverage."

Also speaking, the Co-Chair of the HFN Annual Conference 2025 Planning Committee, Mrs. Chinyere Okorocha, shared insights into the conference theme and its focus on tackling key challenges in Nigeria’s healthcare system. She explained that the theme, “Expanding Access to Quality Healthcare: Transforming Nigeria through Innovation, Partnership, and Sustainability,” was chosen to emphasize the urgent need for innovation and collaboration in healthcare. The conference will explore vital topics such as healthcare policy reforms, system strengthening, and financing solutions, with the aim of creating a more resilient and accessible healthcare system for Nigeria.

Mrs. Okorocha further outlined the format of the two-day event, which will be packed with insights and collaborative discussions. "The conference will feature three sessions each day, focusing on critical areas like healthcare innovation, policy reform, and financing. Attendees can expect a dynamic blend of expert panels, workshops, and interactive discussions designed to provide actionable insights that will contribute to transforming Nigeria’s healthcare landscape,” she said. The format aims to create a space for experts, policymakers, and healthcare professionals to engage in meaningful dialogues and exchange innovative ideas.

In addition to the core conference sessions, Mrs. Okorocha highlighted several exciting activities planned to engage attendees and celebrate HFN’s legacy. These include a Gala Dinner and Award Night to honor outstanding contributions to healthcare, as well as the HFN Women’s Forum Event, which will focus on empowering women in healthcare. The conference will also feature a 10th Anniversary Celebration Event to mark a decade of impact and innovation, alongside exhibitions showcasing cutting-edge healthcare technologies and solutions. These activities, she noted, are designed to foster collaboration, recognize excellence, and celebrate HFN's significant role in advancing healthcare in Nigeria.

The celebration promises to be a year of reflection, recognition, and progress. HFN is committed to charting a course for the next decade, fostering collaboration, and advancing reforms to ensure equitable, accessible healthcare for all Nigerians.

The Healthcare Federation of Nigeria (HFN) is the umbrella body for private-sector stakeholders committed to improving healthcare delivery in Nigeria. Founded in 2015, HFN has been instrumental in advancing healthcare policy reforms, fostering collaborations, and enhancing access to quality healthcare solutions.