Director General of the West African Health Organisation (WAHO), Dr. Aissi Melchior Athanase Joel has reiterated that
quality human resources in the health sector must be available in order to
achieve effective healthcare outcomes.
Dr. Aissi stated this while declaring open the Health Experts meeting which is part of the technical sessions for
the 25th Ordinary meeting of
the ECOWAS Assembly of Health Ministers (AHM)
with the Theme “Quality of Healthcare in the ECOWAS region: analysis of Determinants
and Perspectives” holding from 13th
to 17th May, 2024 in Abuja.
He said that the theme of the meeting is perfectly in line with the
elements of analysis of the objective of the organisation and indicates
continuity of the 24th Assembly of Health Ministers (AHM) theme
adding that health norms must be applied and the standard of Health quality
established for human care in all forms, respected and upheld at all times.
Dr. Aissi reminded that “we have
five years to attain the deadline set
for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, and therefore the pressure is
mounting on all States in general and those of the ECOWAS region particularly,
in view of the progress made and the effective evidence of mechanisms and
approaches capable of strengthening and amplifying the effects of our actions
in the hope of achieving the expected results in the long term”.
The DG advised the experts to carry out a critical analysis
accompanied by concrete solutions to comply with the World Health Organisation
(WHO) recommendation on breastfeeding up to the age of 6 months, which is one
of the most effective ways of preserving health and ensuring child survival.
While thanking Nigeria for hosting the 25th AHM, he
conveyed warm greetings of Dr. Omar Alieu TOURAY, President of the ECOWAS
Commission and wished the experts
fruitful discussions and deliberations.
In his speech, Director, Health, Planning, Research and Statistics (HPRS)
Ministry of Health and Social Welfare,
doubling as the Chairman, Health
Experts Committee stated that Nigerian Government is committed to ensuring equitable
access to quality healthcare services across all communities.
According
to him, Nigeria, as one of the largest and most populous country in the region,
offers unique perspectives and challenges in delivering healthcare services
evident in the National Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative which is
designed to reduce physical and financial pains and produce health for all
Nigerians.
Dr. Chris revealed the need for much work to be done particularly in
addressing persistent issues such as maternal and child health infectious
diseases and the emerging threat of non-communicable diseases.
He noted that the National Health Insurance Scheme being
re-organised, is aimed at expanding coverage and reducing out-of-pocket
expenses of healthcare.
He further stated that, “as we convene to discuss strategies and
forge partnerships, let us reaffirm our
dedication to the health and well being of every individual in our region.
Together, through collaboration, innovation and shared resources, we can overcome challenges, strengthen health
systems and build a brighter, healthier
future for all West Africans as well as chart the course for an
innovative West Africa”.
Patricia Deworitshe
Director (Press)
FMOH/SW
14TH May, 2024.
