Stakeholders Recognize Banigo’s Impact on Health Policy Advancement
Abuja, Nigeria | May 6, 2026
The coalition of health sector stakeholders on Tuesday, May 6, 2026, paid a formal appreciation visit to the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Health (Secondary & Tertiary), Distinguished Senator Dr. Ipalibo Harry Banigo, following the Senate passage of the National Health Act Amendment Bill.
The delegation—led by the Vaccine Network for Disease Control (VNDC) in collaboration with the Global Health Advocacy Incubator (GHAI), and comprising representatives from the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Solina Centre for International Development and Research (SCIDaR), the Health Sector Reform Coalition (HSRC), and members of the media—acknowledged the Senator’s leadership in advancing an evidence-informed and consultative legislative process.
The amendment, which proposes an increase in the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) from 1% to 2% of the Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF), is widely regarded as a critical step toward strengthening Nigeria’s health financing framework, reinforcing accountability, and accelerating progress toward Universal Health Coverage.
Speaking during the visit, Dr. Chika Offor, Chief Executive Officer of VNDC, commended Senator Banigo for her leadership and resilience, describing the passage of the Bill as a major milestone for sustainable healthcare financing and improved access to quality health services, particularly for women, children, and underserved populations.
Prof. Emmanuel Alhassan of GHAI highlighted the amendment as a transformative reform that strengthens Nigeria’s commitment to domestic health financing and enhances the foundation for improved healthcare delivery nationwide.
Dr. Lecky Muhammed of HSRC described the increase in BHCPF funding as a strategic investment in the health sector, capable of improving affordability, strengthening primary healthcare systems, and advancing universal health coverage.
Similarly, Dr. Garba Bakunawa of NPHCDA emphasised that the increased allocation would enhance frontline healthcare delivery, strengthen immunisation services, and expand access to essential healthcare, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
In her response, Senator Dr. Ipalibo Harry Banigo expressed appreciation to stakeholders, civil society organisations, development partners, and government institutions for their sustained engagement and support throughout the legislative process. She reaffirmed her commitment to advancing policies that strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system and emphasised the importance of sustainable financing in improving health outcomes for all Nigerians.
The appreciation visit and its significance were featured on TVC News at 12 noon, further amplifying national visibility and public awareness of this important legislative milestone.
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