Stakeholders from government, civil society, and public health agencies gathered in Abuja to validate a health security accountability framework aimed at promoting responsible health financing and equitable vaccine access. Dr. Celestine Okorie of HERFON emphasized the framework’s role in enhancing transparency and tracking investments in health security for vulnerable populations.
Stakeholders from government institutions, civil society, and public health agencies convened in Abuja to validate a health security accountability framework aimed at enhancing responsible health financing and ensuring equitable access to essential vaccines. This meeting, organized by the Health Reform Foundation of Nigeria (HERFON) in collaboration with Gem Hub Initiative and the Vaccine Network for Disease Control, marked a significant step in Nigeria’s health accountability efforts.
Dr. Celestine Okorie, the executive secretary of HERFON and a lead organizer, emphasized that the validation of the framework represents a major milestone in promoting transparency and accountability in health financing. He noted that the initiative is funded by the African Health Budget Network and involves numerous partners. Okorie highlighted the project’s long-term goal of tracking investments in health security and advocating for improved access for vulnerable populations.
Dr. Fatima Abubakar from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) praised the framework for aligning with national health objectives. She highlighted the importance of accountability platforms in enhancing funding outcomes, particularly for preparedness and budgeting. Abubakar expressed optimism that this initiative would lead to more significant impacts over time.
Dr. Agha Ukpai Agha, a director at the National Biosecurity Management Agency, underscored the importance of collaboration for public health and biosecurity. He urged stakeholders to work together to enhance the nation’s biosecurity, stressing that a secure nation benefits all its citizens.
From the fiscal governance perspective, Dr. Anayo Ike, a technical assistant at the Budget Office of the Federation, mentioned that the initiative aligns with the government’s budgeting approach. He explained that health security intersects various sectors and affirmed ongoing support for the initiative. Ike also noted the need for specific budget line items for health security to facilitate better monitoring and performance tracking.
Sadiq Sani from the Africa Health Budget Network highlighted the organization’s commitment to transparency and citizen engagement in health matters. He expressed hope that the discussions would lead to improved healthcare accessibility.
As the meeting concluded, attendees shared a collective understanding that transparency, equitable funding, and collaborative efforts are crucial for securing the health of Nigeria’s populace, particularly amid global health uncertainties. This validation meeting was viewed as a pivotal moment in shaping a more accountable and responsive health system in Nigeria.
