Posted on: Mon 10-03-2025

Assessing Tinubu and Obi’s potential impact on Nigeria’s healthcare system requires examining their records, policies, and governance styles within the broader healthcare challenges.

Bola Tinubu’s Record and Approach

As Lagos State governor (1999–2007), Tinubu improved revenue generation and infrastructure, including some healthcare initiatives like upgrading hospitals and introducing free maternal and child healthcare in state-run facilities. However, these efforts were limited and did not achieve universal healthcare coverage.

Since becoming president, Tinubu’s economic policies, such as fuel subsidy removal and currency devaluation, have driven up living costs, making healthcare less affordable. Drug prices have risen by over 100% since 2023. His Renewed Hope manifesto pledged to strengthen primary healthcare, expand insurance, and revamp 10,000 PHCs. In office, he launched the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (Dec 2023) to improve maternal health, but progress has been slow. The 2024 budget allocated only 4.8% to health—far below the 15% Abuja Declaration target.

A major challenge under Tinubu is the worsening brain drain, with over 5,000 healthcare workers leaving in 2023–2024. While his experience in urban governance and revenue generation could help fund healthcare, his slow start and economic focus raise doubts about transformative change.

Peter Obi’s Record and Approach

As Anambra State governor (2006–2014), Obi was known for fiscal discipline and modest healthcare improvements, including hospital upgrades and medical school accreditation. Anambra reportedly reduced maternal mortality rates under his tenure, though data is anecdotal.

His It’s POssible manifesto prioritized a people-centric healthcare system, promising to refurbish 50% of PHCs, expand insurance, and promote preventive care. He aimed to double health spending to 10–15% and incentivize local drug manufacturing. His clean record and frugality suggest he could ensure healthcare funds are well-managed.

Obi’s grassroots approach could help address chronic underfunding and mismanagement, but his lack of federal experience raises concerns about his ability to navigate national politics for large-scale reforms.

Conclusion

Obi theoretically offers greater potential for healthcare reform through accountability and higher budget commitments, maximizing limited resources. Tinubu, as the incumbent, has experience but prioritizes economic stabilization over healthcare expansion, with underwhelming results so far. Ultimately, Nigeria’s healthcare future depends on effective execution amid political and economic realities.

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