The Federal Government’s commitment to enhancing healthcare standards across Nigeria has been further solidified with the establishment of the National Healthcare Facility Regulatory Agency (NHFRA), as announced by Dr. Iziaq Salako, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare.
Addressing the committee tasked with drafting the framework for the new regulatory body, Dr. Salako emphasized that the government’s decision to form the NHFRA is part of its ongoing efforts to uplift the national healthcare system.
He assured the committee, which submitted its report on Thursday in Abuja, that the government is fully committed to implementing its recommendations.
“This report will not be left on the shelf,” Dr. Salako affirmed. “We are determined to act on the recommendations to enhance the healthcare sector’s integrity and service delivery.”
Dr. Salako also clarified that the NHFRA is not meant to replace any existing regulatory bodies but will work in tandem with them to set national healthcare standards and provide necessary support to state governments in enforcing compliance.
Ms. Daju Kachallom, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, expressed the necessity of the NHFRA in bridging existing regulatory gaps between public and private healthcare facilities.
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Kachallom, who was represented by Mr. Olubunmi Aribeana, Director of the Food and Drugs Department, also praised the committee for its thoughtful recommendations.
Dr. Richardson Ajayi, Chairman of the NHFRA Committee, highlighted that the committee’s report includes critical documents such as a draft establishment bill, a resource mobilization plan, and an implementation strategy, all aimed at ensuring Nigeria’s healthcare facilities adhere to essential care standards.
“The creation of the NHFRA is a pivotal step toward guaranteeing that healthcare facilities nationwide meet the required standards for quality care,” Dr. Ajayi stated.
As the Ministry moves forward with the report’s implementation, stakeholders are optimistic about the NHFRA’s potential to transform Nigeria’s healthcare landscape.