Maden Healthcare Foundation (MHF), a leading non-governmental organization with a focus on menstrual hygiene, school health, and medical missions, joined the global community to commemorate Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Day 2024 on Thursday.
This year’s theme, “Health: It’s on the Government,” highlighted the critical role of governments in ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare for all citizens.
Dr. Eseoghene Agbatutu, Founder of Maden Healthcare Foundation, emphasizes the importance of government accountability in achieving UHC, stating that,
“Health is a fundamental right, not a privilege.”
The theme this year reminds us that the responsibility of ensuring accessible and affordable healthcare lies squarely with the government. As an NGO, MHF continues to play a supportive role, but sustainable solutions require systemic changes led by policymakers.”
Dr. Agbatutu called on the Nigerian government to increase healthcare funding, prioritize public health initiatives, and strengthen the nation’s primary healthcare system to meet the needs of vulnerable populations.
She used the opportunity to list some of the foundation’s contributions to the UHC.
According to her, MHF, in its ongoing efforts to complement government initiatives in improving healthcare access, does so via its various areas of focus:
Menstrual Hygiene Advocacy:The foundation has reached thousands of schoolgirls across Nigeria with menstrual hygiene education, emergency menstrual hygiene kits for schools and sanitary pads, breaking taboos and reducing absenteeism caused by inadequate menstrual care.
Also, through initiatives like the recent School Health Program Month, MHF has provided health education, medical screenings, and resources to ensure that students thrive in healthy learning environments.
On Medical Missions,MHF’s free medical outreaches to underserved communities have delivered life-saving interventions, including treatments for preventable diseases, health screenings, and health education to improve awareness and health seeking behaviours.
In addition, Dr. Agbatutu stated that
MHF has continued to join voices with global health advocates in calling for stronger political will to achieve UHC by 2030, as outlined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The foundation stressed the importance of public-private partnerships in addressing gaps in healthcare delivery.
As part of its commitment to UHC, MHF announces plans to expand its programs in 2025, with a special focus on rural outreaches, youth engagement, and capacity-building for healthcare providers.
Dr. Agbatutu concludes by saying, “Achieving universal health coverage is not an option; it is a necessity. We need urgent action, and we call on our government to fulfill its mandate to protect the health and future of all Nigerians.”
Maden Healthcare Foundation is a non-governmental organization dedicated to improving health outcomes in Nigeria through menstrual hygiene education, school health initiatives, and medical missions. The foundation remains steadfast in its mission to bridge healthcare gaps and empower communities for a healthier future.
It’s slogan is “Maden Healthcare Foundation: Beyond healthcare…..administering with love 💜!”.