Transforming Healthcare Delivery: The Role of Public-Private Partnerships

Nigeria’s healthcare system, like many across the continent, is grappling with immense challenges, from chronic underfunding and outdated infrastructure to a severe shortage of modern medical facilities. With healthcare indicators among the worst in Africa, the situation is exacerbated by the rapid population growth—5.5 live births per woman and a 3.2% annual increase—set to push the population to 400 million by 2050, making it the third most populous country globally.

Despite a desperate need for at least 237,000 doctors per WHO recommendations, there are only about 35,000 medical professionals available in the country, a shortfall worsened by the mass migration of healthcare workers overseas. The consequences are dire, with Nigeria losing at least $2 billion annually to medical tourism, primarily to India. Yet, amid these constraints lies a powerful opportunity for transformative change: the rise of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs). These partnerships are a strategic fusion of private-sector efficiency and public health infrastructure, offering a dynamic solution to the limitations of traditional public healthcare systems.

PPPs are collaborations that leverage the strengths of both sectors. The public sector provides regulatory oversight and ensures public health priorities are met, while the private sector injects much-needed capital, advanced technology, and specialised expertise. This dynamic partnership addresses the limitations of traditional public healthcare systems, fostering an environment where innovation and efficiency can flourish. As we have seen in other sectors, such as transportation and energy, the involvement of private players can drive significant improvements in service delivery.

Nigeria has already witnessed the tangible impact of successful PPPs in healthcare. One standout example is the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) Cancer Centre, a state-of-the-art facility developed through a public-private partnership. Before its establishment, many Nigerians had to travel abroad for advanced cancer treatment. Today, LUTH’s cancer centre not only offers world-class care locally but also serves as a blueprint for how such partnerships can effectively address critical health infrastructure gaps.

The Private Health Sector Alliance of Nigeria (PSHAN) embodies the synergy between the public and private sectors, which is essential for achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC). We aim to leverage private sector capabilities, assets, and expertise to complement government efforts and accelerate the improvement of health outcomes for all Nigerians. Through initiatives like the Adopt a Healthcare Facility Programme (ADHFP) and strategic public-private collaborations, we’re building an inclusive, resilient, and future-focused healthcare system, particularly at the grassroots level where healthcare needs are most pressing.

The Adopt-A-Healthcare-Facility Programme (ADHFP) is a flagship initiative designed to provide renovated Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) across all 774 local government areas in Nigeria. As the backbone of healthcare delivery, PHCs go a long way towards offering universal health coverage. However, due to neglect and underfunding, many of these facilities are in a state of disrepair, lacking basic equipment and adequate staffing. This has eroded public trust in their ability to provide quality care.

ADHFP aims to transform this perception by leveraging private sector investment to enhance healthcare infrastructure and expand access for all. Through the program, private partners “adopt” PHCs, committing to upgrade facilities, supply critical resources, and ensure the delivery of high-quality, world-class healthcare. This initiative goes beyond physical improvements; it fosters a renewed trust in the healthcare system, encouraging communities to prioritise preventive care at these centres.

Despite their immense potential, PPPs in healthcare are not without challenges. Regulatory hurdles, licensing issues, and the complexities of navigating public-sector frameworks can deter private investors. The Nigerian private health sector grapples with importation regulations, taxation policies, and limited access to essential medical supplies. To foster a conducive environment for private sector involvement, the government must streamline these processes and build strong public institutions that can support and sustain PPPs.

Achieving transformative change in Nigerian healthcare requires strong leadership and vision. The government must actively champion PPPs as a major part of long-term healthcare reform, creating an enabling environment for private sector innovation. The private sector also needs to recognise its role as a critical player in the broader public health ecosystem. This way, both sectors can build a resilient, innovative healthcare system that meets the diverse needs of Nigeria’s population.

This collaborative approach is a win-win: it improves service delivery efficiency while creating a system that is responsive to evolving healthcare needs. As the COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated, health systems must be adaptable and resilient to handle crises. The private sector must step up, and the government must continue to create an enabling environment for public-private partnerships (PPPs) to thrive. Together, we can deliver efficient, equitable, and quality healthcare to all Nigerians, capable of meeting current demands and future challenges.