The Committee on the Establishment of the National Healthcare Facility Regulatory Agency (NHFRA) has officially submitted its report to the Ministry of Health & Social Welfare. Upon receiving the report, the Minister of State for Health, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, assured that the federal government would thoroughly review and implement the recommendations to strengthen healthcare regulation in the country.
During the official presentation, Dr. Salako emphasized the significance of establishing NHFRA, noting that the government recognizes the pressing need for an independent regulatory body to address existing gaps in healthcare standards and quality. He reassured professional bodies within the health sector that NHFRA is not designed to override any professional leadership or duplicate the roles of existing regulatory institutions.
“The primary objective is to set clear standards of practice across the country and establish a body that can support state-level regulatory activities,” Dr. Salako stated. “States are already responsible for registering healthcare facilities and monitoring compliance. NHFRA will serve as a complementary force to enhance these efforts.”
He further assured the committee members that their recommendations would not be ignored. “These reports will not sit on the shelves. We will take proactive steps to activate them and improve the healthcare sector in our country.”
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Daju Kachollom mni, represented by Pharmacist Olubunmi Aribeana, Director of the Food & Drugs Department, described NHFRA as a timely and strategic solution to longstanding regulatory challenges in both public and private healthcare facilities. She commended the committee, led by Dr. Richardson Ajayi, for its diligent work since September 2024, culminating in a comprehensive report that includes a draft establishment bill, resource mobilization plan, and implementation strategy.
Presenting the report, Dr. Richardson Ajayi reaffirmed that the proposed agency aligns with the federal government’s commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He highlighted that NHFRA would ensure all healthcare facilities meet fundamental standards, reinforcing the country’s commitment to improved healthcare delivery and patient safety.
