Lagos Ranks 8th in Africa for Best Healthcare: A Triumph of Collaborative Efforts

EKO HOT BLOG In a recent announcement by Numbeo, a renowned research firm specializing in quality-of-life data, Lagos has been ranked as the 8th city with the best healthcare system in Africa. This recognition signifies a significant milestone in the city’s healthcare landscape and reflects the dedication and collaborative efforts of various stakeholders.

The comprehensive Health Index analysis, utilizing an elaborate algorithm, considered factors such as the skill and competency of medical staff, quality of health infrastructure, availability of modern diagnostic and treatment equipment, health resources, cost of care, and convenience of location and services. The ranking places Lagos alongside other leading cities in Africa such as Cape Town, Pretoria, Nairobi, Johannesburg, Durban, Algiers, and Tunis.

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To celebrate this achievement, the Lagos State Government shared the news on their official Facebook page, expressing pride in the recognition and acknowledging the collective efforts that have contributed to the city’s healthcare success.

This achievement is credited to the strategic leadership of successive administrations in Lagos State. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu initiated healthcare reforms two decades ago, a torch carried forward by Governors Babatunde Fashola, Akinwunmi Ambode, and the present Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu. Their focus on policies, infrastructural development, and the Public-Private-Partnership model has led to the expansion of high-quality healthcare facilities.

The collaborative efforts extend to the private sector, which has made substantial investments in advancing healthcare services. This partnership has been instrumental, especially during critical periods like the COVID-19 pandemic, augmenting resources and expanding healthcare access across the state.

Healthcare institutions like Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) and Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) have been recognized for their contributions to cutting-edge research, training, and specialized healthcare. Despite facing challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and economic crises, these institutions have consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence.

Acknowledging the efforts of the three tiers of government – local, state, and federal – is crucial. Their collective support in policy formulation and resource allocation has created an environment conducive to healthcare advancements and improvements.

Leadership within the health sector, represented by figures like Dr. Leke Pitan, Dr. Jide Idris, and the current Commissioner, Prof. Akin Abayomi, has been crucial to this success. Their visionary leadership and strategic implementations have significantly contributed to the city’s healthcare advancements.

In an interview, Mr. Tunbosun Ogunbanwo, the Director of Public Affairs at the Lagos State Ministry of Health, highlighted the consistent strategic policies, unwavering political will, innovative approaches, and the combined efforts of past and present administrations, regulatory bodies, private sector investments, and healthcare institutions as key factors in Lagos’s healthcare success.

Looking ahead, Lagos aims to achieve Universal Healthcare Coverage and become a model megacity medical tourism destination for Africa. The government remains committed to continuous improvement, fostering a healthcare environment that ensures the well-being and health of its populace.