Older persons across Nigeria joined the global community to mark Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Day 2024, highlighting the urgent need for equitable and inclusive health systems.
Organized by Age Nigeria Foundation, the week-long event features seminars, media campaigns, and advocacy visits to local government leaders to push for the inclusion of older persons in state health insurance schemes.
Speaking on the occasion through a press statement released today, Oluwayemisi Oluwole, President of Age Nigeria Foundation and Co-Lead of HelpAge International’s Healthy Ageing Platform, emphasized the importance of this year’s theme: “Health: It’s on the Government.” “We are calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Health Minister Prof. Muhammed Ali Pate, and Finance Minister Mr. Olawale Edun to uphold their commitments to Universal Health Coverage as outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals and the recent High-Level Political Declaration in New York,” she stated.
The campaign includes the release of fact sheets on Universal Health Coverage tailored for an ageing world, radio and television appearances by older persons, and community outreach by Age Nigeria’s campaigners. “Health is a human right,” Ms. Oluwole reiterated. “Investing in inclusive health systems benefits individuals, communities, and the economy.”
Camilla Williamson, Global Healthy Ageing Adviser and Co-Lead of HelpAge International’s UHC Thematic Action Group, highlighted the transformative potential of inclusive health systems. “Progress toward healthy ageing offers a unique opportunity to reorient our health systems to meet the needs of older people. This benefits not just individuals but society at large,” she said.
In Lagos, the Thani Oladunjoye Older People Care Center (TOOPCC) has been at the forefront of providing free health services for chronic diseases affecting older persons. Coordinator Tunde Thani explained, “Older people face the greatest burden of disease and require integrated, person-centered care. Our work in Lagos demonstrates how community-based health services can promote healthy ageing.”
Acknowledging the fundamental right to affordable and accessible healthcare, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has reiterated its commitment to tackling health challenges with practical, sustainable solutions. Campaigners are urging the government to ensure older persons are included in the Federal Health Sector Renewal and Investment Initiative.
The movement also calls on Nigerians to join the advocacy by signing an open letter via HelpAge International’s website via:
https://www.helpage.org/sign-the-open-letter-for-universal-health-coverage-day-2024/.
“This is not just about older persons,” Ms. Oluwole concluded. “Inclusive health systems are essential for the well-being of everyone, everywhere.”
