The President of the Healthcare Federation of Nigeria (HFN), Dr. Pamela Ajayi, on Tuesday, November 21st, led a high-profile HFN delegation in a strategic meeting with the Minister of State for Health, Dr. Tunji Alausa, at the Federal Ministry of Health in Abuja. The meeting saw the participation of key figures in the healthcare sector, including Mrs. Njide Ndili, Vice President of HFN and Country Director of Pharmaccess; Dr. Felix Ogedegbe, CEO of Cedarcrest Hospitals; Dr. Ibrahim Wada, CEO of Nisa Premier Hospital; Dr. Boroji Osindero, CEO of Wellpath Physiotherapy; Dr. Adegoyega Oridota, CEO of Medcourt Support Services; Dr. Andrew Alaefule, Country General Manager of DCL Laboratory Products; Dr. Fola Adebowale, CEO of Recon Health Media, amongst others.
Dr. Ajayi provided a comprehensive overview of HFN's initiatives over the years, with a specific emphasis on advocacy efforts for the National Policy on Incentivizing the Healthcare Sector. One of the key proposals put forth was the establishment of a dedicated customs fast-track corridor for efficient healthcare cargo clearance. The delegation also advocated for zero-duty tax levies and sought exemption from Value Added Tax (VAT) for Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) and life-saving equipment.
In response, Minister Alausa expressed his pleasure at meeting with Dr. Ajayi and the HFN team, acknowledging the importance of collaboration with organizations like HFN to enhance healthcare access, practices, and quality. He stressed the significance of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) in implementing Universal Health Coverage and achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.
The minister concluded by expressing his anticipation of working closely with HFN and other private organizations to strengthen the healthcare system, emphasizing the shared commitment to advancing the nation's health outcomes. The strategic meeting signifies a collaborative effort between the public and private sectors to address critical issues within the healthcare landscape, reflecting a commitment to achieving comprehensive and sustainable improvements in Nigeria's healthcare sector.
