Socioeconomic determinants of health status in Nigeria (1980 - 2014)

Abstract

The health status of citizens is part of the wealth of nations. So, this study analysed the socioeconomic determinants of health status in Nigeria, (West) Africa’s largest economy, using Cointegration and VECM methodology to analyse the relationship between the dependent variable (life expectancy rate) and the explanatory variables (primary school enrolment, per capita income, government expenditure on health, unemployment rate, gross capital formation and carbon dioxide emission) of health status. The results showed that carbon dioxide emission, gross capital formation, health expenditure, and unemployment rate were significant in explaining life expectancy in Nigeria, while other variables were not significant. Also, shocks from gross capital formation, unemployment, carbon dioxide emissions and primary school enrolment had negative effects on life expectancy rate while, the shocks from government spending on health and per capita income had positive response on life expectancy. These results imply that the Nigerian state authorities need to invest more in health care facilities, reduce unemployment, and ensure sustainable environment by making use of clean energy. Implementing the National Health Insurance Scheme in this regard could be a complementary step. These measures might sound wide-ranging, but they are justified not only because they can improve the health status of Nigerians but also contribute to driving sustainable development.