Abuja, June 18, 2025 – Nigeria has seized the spotlight at the recent BRICS meeting by underlining its firm commitment to advancing global health equity. In a move aimed at addressing long-standing healthcare disparities, the country unveiled a sweeping package of health sector reforms designed to transform primary and tertiary care systems while reinforcing partnerships under the BRICS framework.
The announcements made by Nigeria’s delegation reflect a strategic, multipurpose approach to health reform. At the centre is a revitalised primary healthcare agenda, which includes expanding and upgrading Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) nationwide, especially in underserved and rural regions. The reforms also encompass renewed funding for immunisation programmes, centred on increasing access to childhood vaccines and maternal care, with support from BRICS-affiliated development cooperation channels.
In parallel, Nigeria detailed an initiative to strengthen its health insurance architecture through the National Health Insurance Authority. This initiative will focus on widening coverage, streamlining provider networks, and reducing out-of-pocket expenses, aligning with the shared BRICS goal of universal health care access.
To support these sweeping reforms, Nigeria has sought technical and financial backing from BRICS mechanisms such as the New Development Bank. Delegates announced plans to explore affordable and accessible vaccine procurement, digital health infrastructure, and improved data collection systems for epidemic preparedness.
The reforms come at a critical juncture following the introduction of the Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp) in late 2023, which aimed to improve coordination between federal and state governments and development partners. By expanding this framework, Nigeria intends to ensure that healthcare investments are evidence-based, transparent, and results-driven—meeting global benchmarks for health systems performance.
Nigeria’s move resonates strongly within BRICS’ broader agenda, which emphasises multilateral health cooperation, equitable pandemic response, and resilience in healthcare delivery. As a BRICS partner nation since early 2025, Nigeria is positioning itself as a leader in African health diplomacy, championing innovations in financing, delivery, and governance.
Taken together, the health reforms announced at the BRICS meeting mark a watershed moment in Nigeria’s pursuit of universal health coverage and global health equity. The reforms are expected to improve maternal and child health, dramatically expand access to basic services, and strengthen the country’s preparedness for future public health emergencies, all in line with both national development plans and international commitments.
