Politics of healthcare delivery in Nigeria: a critical analysis for change

Abstract

This paper examined the effects of politics on healthcare delivery in Nigeria. It is against the backdrop of the obvious health inequality and lack of universal health coverage in the country, thereby making healthcare delivery inaccessible and unaffordable. The qualitative research method was adopted for the study, and it relied on the exegesis and analysis of secondary sources. The theoretical background for the study is the utilitarian theory that espouses the pleasure or happiness of the greater number over that of the lesser number. The inability of government to provide governance and implement health policies and programmes, inadequate budgetary provision for health sector and pervasive corruption, lack of rural developmental programmes, and absence of qualified health personnel are some avenues politics has negatively impacted health care delivery in Nigeria. This has tremendous effects on the country in terms of national development, which is largely dependent on a healthy and strong population, and loss of revenue through medical tourism. To remedy the situation, it was recommended among others that there should be improved funding of health sector, as well as the political will and commitment to implement health policies and programmes; improvement of the socio-economic and political situation in the country, and a legislation banning medical tourism by government officials.