The Healthcare Sector in Nigeria: An Overview.
Nigeria’s healthcare sector plays a critical role in serving Africa’s most populous nation, with over 200 million people. It operates through a mixed system of public and private providers, with responsibilities shared among federal, state, and local governments. Despite facing significant challenges, the sector has shown resilience and gradual improvement in recent years.
Public healthcare is structured into three tiers. Primary healthcare, managed mainly by local governments, serves as the first point of contact and focuses on preventive care, maternal and child health, and basic treatments. Secondary healthcare, run by state governments, includes general hospitals that handle more complex cases. Tertiary healthcare, overseen by the federal government, consists of teaching hospitals and specialized medical centers that provide advanced care and training for health professionals.
The private healthcare sector has grown rapidly, particularly in urban areas, filling gaps left by public facilities. Private hospitals, clinics, diagnostic centers, and pharmacies often offer faster services and better infrastructure, though at higher costs. Faith-based and non-governmental organizations also contribute significantly, especially in rural and underserved communities.
Nigeria faces major healthcare challenges, including inadequate funding, shortages of skilled health workers, outdated equipment, and uneven access between urban and rural areas. The country continues to struggle with a high burden of infectious diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS, alongside a rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and cancer.
In response, the government has launched reforms aimed at strengthening primary healthcare and expanding health insurance coverage through the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA). Digital health solutions, telemedicine, and private-sector investment are also beginning to transform service delivery. With sustained policy support and increased investment, Nigeria’s healthcare sector holds significant potential to improve health outcomes and drive socio-economic development.