Former President Goodluck Jonathan has called on the Church to play a pivotal role in improving Nigeria’s healthcare system. He made this appeal in his keynote address at the inaugural Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion Health Summit held in Abuja on Wednesday.
Represented by Prof. John-Kennedy Opara, former Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC), Jonathan emphasized the Church’s historic contributions to the health and education sectors in Nigeria.
Reflecting on the 2014 Ebola crisis, Jonathan praised the courage of healthcare workers, including Dr. Stella Adadevoh, who lost their lives while combating the outbreak. He also highlighted the significance of the National Health Act, signed into law during his administration, which he said had greatly improved healthcare access for millions of Nigerians.
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“The National Health Act 2014 established a framework for providing essential health services, managing health resources, and protecting patients’ rights. Today, over 10 million Nigerians benefit from health insurance provided by various state social health insurance schemes,” Jonathan noted.
He urged the Anglican Church to take the lead in promoting health insurance enrollment and bridging gaps in healthcare access. He also called on faith-based organizations to use their influence to advocate for equitable healthcare policies and to foster partnerships with both the government and the private sector.
“The Church must harness its platforms and resources to lead a transformative health initiative, ensuring that no Nigerian is left behind in the quest for quality, affordable healthcare,” Jonathan stated.
Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, the Primate of All Nigeria Anglican Church, presented a visionary plan for integrating holistic health into the Church’s mission. He emphasized the Church’s historical role in pioneering healthcare in Nigeria, recalling efforts to establish clinics and hospitals dating back to the 19th century.
Ndukuba called for a renewed commitment to comprehensive healthcare that blends physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, aligned with Biblical teachings and modern health standards. He stressed the urgent need for the Church to address Nigeria’s healthcare challenges, which have been exacerbated by corruption and inadequate government response.
The Primate proposed several strategic initiatives, including the establishment of the Church of Nigeria Health Commission to streamline healthcare services and the creation of a Health Maintenance Organisation (HMO) to cater to the healthcare needs of Nigerians. He also advocated for the development of pharmaceutical production and a fellowship for healthcare professionals to strengthen the Church’s medical outreach.
Highlighting the Church’s potential to lead in healthcare and transform community well-being, Ndukuba urged Christian healthcare professionals to seize this “Kairos moment” for impactful service. His address set the stage for the summit’s mission to develop a comprehensive health policy and blueprint for advancing the Church’s role in holistic health ministry.
Mr. Peter Nmadu, Chairman of the National Steering Committee, also spoke at the summit, emphasizing the importance of healthcare in the Church’s mission. He acknowledged the challenges faced, including recent health crises, and called for a coordinated response. Nmadu expressed gratitude to the Church leadership and participants, urging collective efforts towards a healthier future for both the Church and society.
