The Nigerian Medical Association, NMA, in Ekiti State, has urged President Bola Tinubu to implement import duty and value-added tax (VAT) waivers on drugs and other medical consumables to make healthcare more accessible and affordable for Nigerians. In a communique issued after its 27th annual general meeting, the NMA also urged the President to implement the newly increased capitation rates of the National Health Insurance Authority, NHIA, and to strengthen the scheme to ensure broader coverage for Nigerians in the pursuit of Universal Health Coverage. Speaking with journalists in Ado-Ekiti over the weekend, its newly elected state chairman, Dr. Oreyemi Ifedayo, stated that such a policy would not only help reduce the spate of sudden deaths among Nigerians but also create a more conducive environment for health practitioners in the country.
“The AGM urges the President to ensure the implementation of import duty and VAT waivers on drugs and medical consumables to make healthcare affordable for Nigerians.
“This will undoubtedly help in preventing sudden deaths among Nigerians. Efforts must also be made not only to strengthen the NHIA to cover the majority of Nigerians in the pursuit of Universal Health Coverage but also to ensure the implementation of the newly increased NHIA rates.”
