The Senate Committee on Health (Secondary and Tertiary) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s struggling healthcare system.
Chairman of the committee, Senator Ipalibo Harry Banigo, made the pledge on Tuesday in a message to commemorate World Health Day 2026.
World Health Day is marked annually to raise awareness on critical health issues and promote global action towards improved healthcare delivery.
Banigo, in her message, highlighted the theme for this year, “Together for Health: Stand with Science,” stressing the need to prioritise maternal and newborn health in Nigeria.“Quality healthcare is not a privilege for a few, but a fundamental right for all,” she stated. “Every Nigerian deserves access to competent, compassionate, and continuous care.”
The senator, who is also a medical doctor, said she had continued to champion legislative efforts aimed at reforming the health sector.She said the committee would focus on strengthening healthcare delivery at the secondary and tertiary levels, increasing investment in health infrastructure, and improving training and retention of healthcare workers, especially in underserved communities.Banigo also called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders, including development partners, civil society organisations, traditional institutions and healthcare professionals, to tackle persistent health challenges.
She noted that the Senate remained committed to advancing universal health coverage, improving emergency response systems, and ensuring sustainable financing for health programmes in line with global development goals.
“Let this day serve not only as a moment of reflection, but as a call to action. Together, we can build a nation where healthy beginnings truly lead to hopeful futures,” she said.
She added, “Happy World Health Day. Let us continue to work together to make health for all a reality.”
