GOVERNOR of Ekiti State, Kayode Fayemi, says the Covid-19 pandemic caused setbacks to the several milestones the nation set for itself, including towards Universal Health Coverage by 2030.
He regretted that COVID-19 disrupted health systems and economies.
Fayemi spoke yesterday during a one-day media dialogue on private sector intervention in healthcare, organised by the Association of General and Private Medical Practitioners in Abuja.
According to Fayemi, Nigeria had set several milestones surrounding health before the pandemic began but the pandemic had set things back.
He said, “Before the pandemic began, we had set several milestones for ourselves including towards Universal Health Coverage by 2030. Yet, we are faced with the sad reality that Covid-19 has disrupted health systems and economies.
“In less than two years, the pandemic has caused a setback in development gains achieved over the past 25 years.
“Across the world, we have seen the impact of this pandemic on the livelihoods of people. As a country, we are experiencing our worst recession in the past 40 years.
“But while we mitigate the immediate consequences of the pandemic, we must also focus on building back our economy and health system for tomorrow; an economy and health system which is resilient to global health crises and economic shocks, by prioritising recovery plans that tackle multiple challenges. Nigeria can recover in a way that is more inclusive, sustainable and resilient.”
