August 12, 2024
THE Nigerian Medical Association, NMA, Ekiti State chapter, have called on 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 at the end of its 27th annual general meeting, the NMA also tasked the President on implementing 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.
Briefing journalists in Ado-Ekiti over the weekend, the chapter 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.
Ifedayo said: “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.” he emphasized.
