Nigeria Accelerates AI Integration for Accessible and Secure Healthcare
Nigeria pledges to improve healthcare using AI, digital tech, and data, focusing on accessibility and security. Plans include addressing power supply challenges in health facilities.
Nigeria Commits to Enhancing Healthcare Delivery with AI and Digital Innovation
The Nigerian government has reaffirmed its dedication to improving healthcare services by integrating digital technology, data, and artificial intelligence (AI). At the 5th Africa Digital Health Summit (ADHS 2025) in Lagos, the Honourable Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Salako, emphasized the summit's theme: “Strengthening Health Systems Through Digital Innovation, Data, and AI”. He highlighted the importance of this focus as it aligns with Africa's health priorities and praised Premier Medical Systems, led by Dr Niyi Osamiluyi, for creating a platform that brings together stakeholders across the continent to accelerate progress toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
“Digital technology is changing how we operate by removing physical barriers, improving workflows, enhancing feedback mechanisms, and increasing productivity,” Dr Salako noted.
Digital Health as a Core Reform Strategy
Dr Salako pointed to the Nigeria Digital in Health Initiative (NDHI) as a key program under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. This initiative aims to ensure all Nigerians can access quality healthcare anytime and anywhere without facing financial difficulties. Digitalisation is recognized as a crucial enabler of health sector reform, with the potential to generate millions of jobs and tap into the innovative capacities of Nigerian youth.
The Minister also acknowledged the combined efforts of sub-national governments, state Commissioners of Health, digital health coordinators, development partners, and frontline health workers in supporting the national digital health agenda.
Addressing AI, Data Security, and Power Supply Issues
To improve the quality, efficiency, and accessibility of care, the government is committed to leveraging tools like electronic medical records, telemedicine, mobile health applications, and AI-driven diagnostics. However, Dr Salako warned of the risks tied to digital health, stressing the need for strong cybersecurity measures to protect patient data from cyber threats and ensure ethical standards are maintained.
Recognizing the challenge of inconsistent power supply for digital health operations, the Minister announced plans to hold a National Stakeholders’ Dialogue on Power in Health later this year. This forum will focus on closing energy gaps in healthcare facilities to support continuous digital healthcare delivery.
Building Partnerships for Inclusive Innovation
Dr Salako expressed optimism about the summit’s focus on empowering healthcare students, encouraging innovation through cross-institutional incubators, and developing digital health solutions that address the needs of Africa’s most vulnerable populations.
He concluded, “The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare remains committed to digital health as a means to achieve equity and excellence in healthcare delivery. Sharing experiences and building partnerships can create scalable, sustainable, and inclusive solutions.”
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