Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, has advocated for a significant overhaul of the healthcare system in Nigeria, highlighting its crucial role in fostering national development. During the 10th anniversary celebration and the investiture of new Fellows of the Nigeria Academy for Pharmacy (NAPHARM), where he was honored as a Fellow, Zulum stressed the importance of healthcare transformation as a vital driver for progress.

Speaking through the State Deputy Governor, Umar Usman Kadafur, at the event titled “Healthcare Transformation and National Development,” Zulum urged the establishment of a strong, accessible, and efficient healthcare framework to support a healthy workforce and boost productivity, ultimately contributing to national stability.

His words, “Healthcare is one of the most critical pillars of any society, serving as a foundation for individuals’ well-being and economic growth. When a nation invests in transforming its healthcare system, it invests in its people and ultimately, its future. A robust, accessible, and efficient healthcare system fosters a healthy workforce, enhances productivity, reduces poverty and contributes to societal stability.

“Healthcare transformation is a powerful driver of national development. By improving the health and well-being of citizens, healthcare systems contribute to economic growth, social equity, human capital development and technological innovation.

“When healthcare systems are transformed to be more efficient, equitable and technologically advanced, they create the foundation for a prosperous and resilient society. As nations face global challenges, investing in healthcare transformation will be vital to unlocking sustainable development and a brighter future for all.”

In the context of healthcare transformation and economic growth, the governor emphasized the fundamental importance of a healthy population as the cornerstone of sustainable economic development.

“When individuals are healthy, they can participate more actively in the workforce, boosting productivity and contributing to national prosperity. Healthcare transformation, mainly through improved access to quality medical care and preventive services, reduces the disease burden and ensures citizens can work longer and more efficiently.

“When healthcare systems are weak, the economy suffers from a loss of human capital, as workers may be forced to retire early or reduce their working hours due to illness. Healthcare transformation addresses these challenges by providing timely interventions, promoting preventive healthcare and ensuring that diseases are managed effectively.

“As a result, individuals can stay in the workforce longer and businesses can operate more efficiently without employee absenteeism. This contributes to a more stable and productive economy.”

In terms of attracting foreign direct investment, it is widely acknowledged that nations with advanced and dependable healthcare systems are more appealing to international investors and enterprises.

“Healthcare transformation signals that a country is committed to the well-being of its citizens and provides a stable environment for business operations. Investors are more likely to invest in countries where employees can access high-quality healthcare, reducing the risk of workforce disruptions and lowering the cost of doing business. By improving healthcare infrastructure, nations can position themselves as prime destinations for global companies and investors, boosting economic development.”

A high point of the event was the announcement of Prof Lere Baale as the new President of the NAPHARM. Baale, a seasoned and result-oriented transformational leader, and Chief Executive of Business School Netherlands International, Nigeria, took over from the founding president, Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi, who described the Academy as “a thing of beauty and a joy forever”.