Nigeria, with its vast population of over 200 million people, faces numerous health challenges shaped by factors such as rapid urbanization, poverty, unequal healthcare distribution, and a high burden of diseases. The nation's healthcare system is a mix of public and private services, with a majority of the population relying on government facilities for access to healthcare.

Key Health Challenges

• Communicable Diseases:

  • Malaria remains one of the leading causes of illness and death in Nigeria, particularly among children under five and pregnant women.
  • Tuberculosis (TB) and HIV/AIDS also significantly affect the population, despite ongoing awareness and treatment programs.
  • Nigeria has made progress in reducing polio cases, but vaccination coverage still faces challenges, especially in rural areas.

• Maternal and Child Health:

  • Maternal mortality rates in Nigeria are among the highest globally, primarily due to complications such as hemorrhage, sepsis, and unsafe abortions.
  • Neonatal and infant mortality rates are concerning, often linked to poor access to skilled birth attendants, malnutrition, and inadequate neonatal care.

• Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs):

  • Lifestyle-related diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and obesity are on the rise, particularly in urban centers, due to changing diets and sedentary lifestyles.
  • Cancer, particularly breast and cervical cancer, is another emerging health concern with limited screening and treatment facilities.

• Access to Healthcare:

  • Access to quality healthcare services varies widely between urban and rural areas, with rural regions often experiencing shortages of skilled health professionals, medicines, and basic infrastructure.
  • Health insurance coverage is low, with most Nigerians paying out-of-pocket for medical services, which increases financial barriers to accessing care.

While Nigeria faces significant health challenges, ongoing efforts by the government, NGOs, and international partners hold promise for improving healthcare delivery. Addressing gaps in access, funding, and workforce development will be critical in ensuring better health outcomes for all Nigerians.