Professor Haroun Isah from Bingham University’s College of Medical Sciences is calling on those involved in Nigeria’s health sector to work more closely with international development partners.
He believes these partnerships are crucial for tackling ongoing problems in the health system and boosting positive health results across Nigeria.
Prof. Isah spoke at Bingham University’s 8th Inaugural Lecture held at their main campus in Auta Balefi, Karu, Nasarawa State. The lecture was titled “Development Partners in Health and the Nigerian Health System: Harnessing the Power in Partnership in Health.”
According to Isah, these international partners are vital because they offer financial support, technology, and expertise, which are areas where Nigeria still struggles.
“Despite ongoing reforms, the Nigerian health system faces challenges such as poor infrastructure, inadequate funding, shortage of healthcare professionals, and weak leadership,” he explained.
These issues hold back the delivery and efficiency of healthcare services.
Strengthening Health Through Collaboration
He pointed out that these partners help in shaping health policy, funding important projects, supporting research, and training healthcare workers.
They expand access to critical services and bolster systems like primary healthcare and diagnostics.
Isah highlighted that strategic partnerships in resource mobilisation, capacity building, advocacy, and public-private collaboration have made some improvements in health outcomes.
To tap into these benefits, he suggested the Nigerian government focus on consistent policies, investing in skills for partnership management, and setting up effective monitoring and evaluation systems.
Another critical area to address is corruption, as well as improving national and state coordination.
Prof. Isah said, “When partnerships are properly managed, they become a turning point for national health development.”
The Role of Academic Institutions
During the event, Bingham University’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Haruna Ayuba, added that the lecture theme highlights the urgent need for partnerships to build sustainable health systems.
“No single institution or organisation can solve the complex health issues we face today. Strategic, cross-sector partnerships are essential,” Ayuba said.
He provided Bingham University’s Zankli Research Centre as a successful example of collaboration. The centre works with international partners and government agencies to develop health solutions that fit culturally and are sustainable.
Ayuba said the university plays a crucial role in fostering innovation, training future leaders in healthcare, and generating the knowledge required for a strong health system.
He encouraged other faculties to follow in delivering inaugural lectures, with the College of Medical Sciences currently leading the charge.
Ayuba also announced plans for publishing the university’s Inaugural Lecture Series after the 10th lecture.
Concluding, Ayuba praised Isah for his engaging lecture and thanked Prof. Musa Dankyau, the Deputy Vice Chancellor, for organising the event.
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