Federal Government launches WHO’s Revised Third Generation Country Cooperation Strategy

By Chika Onyesi

The World Health Organisation in collaboration with the Federal Government has launched a revised third generation Nigeria Country Cooperation Strategy (CCSIII). 

The revised Country Cooperation Strategy is in line with WHO’s Thirteenth General Program of Work which seeks to achieve the global goal of population coverage of essential health services, protection from health emergencies, and better health.

Also launched at the event were second National Strategic Health Development Plan (NSHDP II), Crucial Universal Health Coverage documents and the official roll-out of the Basic Health Care Provision Fund implementation plan for six Nigerian pilot states;  Niger, Osun, Abia, Katsina, Edo, Yobe and the Federal Capital Territory.

Speaking at the launch, President Muhammadu Buhari, represented by the Minister of Budget and National Planning, Senator Udo Udoma called on all state governors to put the necessary mechanisms in place to ensure improved health care for all Nigerians

 “This administration will continue to support the health sector and ensure the welfare of all Nigerians.” Said the president 

While appreciating the WHO for their efforts in advancing healthcare delivery in Nigeria, the Minister of State for Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire described the launch as the beginning of the implementation of the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF). 

‘‘The launch is historic’ as it showcases Nigeria’s strategic plan towards achieving Universal Health Coverage’’ he says

The Officer in Charge (OIC) of the WHO Nigeria Country Office, Dr. Clement Peter expressed his gratitude to the Government of Nigeria for the strides made so far towards achieving UHC. 

“The revised CCSIII is strategically aligned to the Sustainable Development Goals, the National Health Act 2014, the National Health Policy 2016, Nigeria’s Economic and Recovery Growth Plan (ERGP) 2017-2020, and the NSHDP II,” he said.  

The revised CCSIII will also be used to communicate WHO’s support to Nigeria, formulate WHO’s country work plan, advocate for and mobilise resources, shape the health dimension of the UN Sustainable Development Partnership Framework (UNSDPF) and coordinate sustainable partnerships towards UHC in Nigeria.