Ekiti State is making impressive strides in healthcare, achieving significant improvements in key health indicators, as detailed in the latest Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) report. Released in Abuja, the report highlights the state’s progress in maternal and child health and improved access to healthcare services, positioning Ekiti as a leading performer in Nigeria's healthcare sector.
The NDHS report revealed that Ekiti has achieved a remarkable reduction in neonatal, infant, and under five mortality rates, which have dropped by over 50% over the past five years. Additionally, teenage pregnancies have decreased by 30%, and there has been a 30% reduction in the unmet need for family planning. Facility based deliveries have also seen a notable increase of 14%.
The impact of these improvements is clear Ekiti has saved 45,000 additional under five lives between 2019 and 2024. This achievement represents 75% of the children who would have otherwise died if the state had maintained its 2018 mortality rates. Ekiti has also leaped from 31st to 5th place in neonatal mortality performance among Nigerian states, highlighting its commitment to child health and survival.
According to Dr. Oyebanji Filani, Ekiti’s Commissioner for Health and Human Services and Chairman of the Nigeria Health Commissioners Forum, Ekiti has exceeded its targets set four years ago. Dr. Filani credits several strategies that have contributed to the state’s healthcare milestones.
Strong Political Leadership and Investment the support from Governor Biodun Oyebanji has been a crucial factor, with substantial investments dedicated to the health sector.
Effective Partnerships by demonstrating concrete results, Ekiti has fostered strong partnerships with development organizations that are now more comfortable investing in the state’s health initiatives.
Accountability and Regular Reviews the state has implemented regular health sector reviews to track progress, ensure accountability, and make adjustments as necessary to maintain positive outcomes.
Fiscal Responsibility Careful financial management has allowed Ekiti to use its resources efficiently, ensuring that every investment in health yields tangible results.
Collaborative Efforts Teamwork across various levels of government and healthcare providers has created a cohesive approach to tackling healthcare challenges.
Ekiti’s success isn’t just about immediate improvements it has also set the stage for a sustainable and resilient healthcare system. With robust infrastructure,dedicated resources, and a framework for ongoing accountability,the state has established a foundation that can support long term health improvements .Dr. Filani emphasizes that these achievements are part of Ekiti’s vision for a health system that is both effective and sustainable.
Ekiti’s progress has not gone unnoticed. The NDHS report suggests that Ekiti’s model, with its focus on accountability, partnerships, and investment in people, could inspire similar improvements in other Nigerian states.With these lessons, other states may be able to replicate Ekiti’s success, working toward nationwide advancements in healthcare outcomes.
Ekiti’s transformation in healthcare is a testament to the power of strategic investment, political will, and collaboration. As other states look to Ekiti as a model, there is a unique opportunity for Nigerian healthcare as a whole to make strides in maternal and child health,access to healthcare, and other critical areas. With this kind of targeted, results driven approach, Nigeria’s vision of improved healthcare for all can become a reality.
Ekiti’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that even in the face of challenges, with the right strategies and support, transformative progress is possible.