From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
The Group Managing Director of International Facilities Services (IFS), Dr. Tunde Ayeye, has called for the adoption of innovative financing mechanisms to address Nigeria’s health sector challenges.
Dr. Ayeye, made this appeal while delivering the 9th Kola Olafimihan College of Health Sciences Endowed Lecture at the University of Ilorin.
Themed “Improving Access to Quality Healthcare Delivery in a Depressed Economy,” the event explored strategic approaches to strengthening healthcare systems amid economic hardships.
In his lecture, Ayeye proposed the use of Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) as a sustainable funding model for healthcare infrastructure.
He also emphasised the need for a holistic approach to healthcare, urging policymakers to treat communities as ecosystems where preventive care, education, and early intervention form the foundation of health policies.
“Healthcare must transcend its current boundaries, becoming not just a service but an economic catalyst,” Ayeye stated.
“By transmuting healthcare services into engines of economic growth, we can create jobs, attract investment, and foster a thriving health industry.”
The health expert further advocated redefining public-private partnerships, developing a new health economy, and leveraging Nigeria’s medical diaspora to reverse brain drain and promote brain gain.
Prof. Suleiman Alabi, Provost of the College of Health Sciences, University of Ilorin, highlighted the impact of the global economic downturn on healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
He called for innovative solutions to expand health insurance coverage and ensure access to quality care for all Nigerians.
“We need to find ways to provide quality healthcare despite the present economy. The government has significant roles to play, especially in expanding health insurance coverage,” Alabi remarked.
He commended initiatives like the Kwara-Care health insurance program but noted that more Nigerians must benefit to achieve universal health coverage.
Mrs. Mobolaji Adeniyi, daughter of the late Dr. Kola Olafimihan, praised the University of Ilorin for organizing the lecture to honor her father’s legacy as a distinguished medical practitioner.
The event underscored the urgent need for collective efforts and innovative strategies to improve healthcare access and delivery in Nigeria.
