Improving Nigeria’s Health System with Stronger Planning and Leadership
The Nigerian Health Ministry trains 150 health managers in Yobe State to improve planning, data use, and leadership under the National Health Sector Renewal Initiative.
The Federal Ministry of Health has trained 150 programme managers across Nigeria to improve how health services are planned and managed. This training is part of the ongoing National Health Sector Renewal Initiative (NHSRI), which aims to build a stronger, people-focused health system in the country.
Training Held in Yobe State
The training was held in Damaturu, Yobe State, and lasted for four days. It brought together health officers from different states and agencies. The theme of the workshop was:
"Leadership, Health System Strengthening, and Health Planning Capacity Development"
Dr. Babagana Abba, the Sector-Wide Approach Desk Officer, said the training is designed to help health programme managers especially those working in local government and rural communities gain better skills in planning and decision-making.
“We want frontline health officers to understand how to use data and lead reforms. It’s not just for top officials anymore,” he explained.
Workshops like this have also been held in Enugu State and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The current session in Yobe involved more than 70 participants.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Health Plan
The Ministry is now preparing for the 2026 Annual Operational Plan (AOP). This plan will test how well Nigeria's health reforms are working. Dr. Abba said the goal is for every health worker from hospitals to small clinics to work together on national health goals.
Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, addressed participants virtually through his adviser, Dr. Isa Bukar. He stressed that the 2026 health plan must show real progress before the 2027 elections.
“We must stop doing things the old way. The 2026 plan is a chance to prove that our reforms are working,” Professor Pate said.
He also noted that the 2025 AOP was the first time Nigeria had nationwide teamwork during the planning process. For 2026, the focus will be on realistic, data-informed, and people-centered plans that are also linked to the health budget.
Partners Support the New Direction
Dr. Musa Matazu, who represented both the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the Aliko Dangote Foundation, praised the workshop. He called it a new kind of training that connects planning with results.
“Many people think health systems are just about hiring staff or buying supplies. But a strong system also includes good leadership, strong data, and proper supervision,” he said.
He also said Yobe State is showing strong support by working with partners and using its resources wisely.
“With this kind of training, states can go beyond their budgets and achieve better health results,” he added.
Why This Matters to Nigerians
This training is a big step towards solving Nigeria’s health problems. It shows that the Ministry of Health is serious about preparing health workers with the right skills to manage programmes well, use data wisely, and lead reforms effectively.
When health workers are well-trained, patients receive better care. It also helps Nigeria move closer to health goals like reducing maternal deaths, improving child health, and making health services accessible to all.
Quick Summary
- 150 programme managers trained under the National Health Sector Renewal Initiative.
- Training took place in Yobe State with over 70 participants.
- Focus: Data-based planning, leadership, and reform execution.
- Workshop prepares for 2026 Annual Operational Plan.
- Partners say this is a major improvement in how health systems are managed.