The federal government has reiterated its dedication to strengthening clinical governance and patient safety systems across Nigeria's health institutions. This move aims to provide safe, coordinated, and quality care for individuals living with non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The commitment was made by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Muhammad Ali Pate, during the commemoration of World Patient Safety Day 2026 in Abuja.
The theme of the commemoration, "Safe Care for Non-communicable Diseases," with the slogan "Safe care for life!", underscores the need to protect patients from avoidable harm throughout their healthcare journey. According to Prof. Pate, NCDs, including cardiovascular diseases, cancers, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases, pose a significant health burden. These conditions often require prolonged interaction with the health system, increasing the risk of safety issues.
Prof. Pate noted that the extended nature of NCD care creates multiple points at which safety risks may occur. These risks can arise during prevention, diagnosis, treatment, referral, follow-up, and long-term management. He emphasized that patient safety is fundamental to the quality and effectiveness of healthcare delivery. The goal is to provide the right care to the right patient, at the right time and in the right manner, while minimizing avoidable harm.
The minister recalled that the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare developed the National Patient Safety and Care Quality Policy and Implementation Strategy in 2024. This policy aims to enhance patient safety and care quality across the country. Furthermore, in January 2026, the ministry established and inaugurated the National Task Force on Clinical Governance and Patient Safety. This task force is expected to play a crucial role in strengthening the national patient safety architecture.
The establishment of the National Task Force on Clinical Governance and Patient Safety is a significant step towards ensuring patient safety in Nigeria. The task force will oversee the implementation of patient safety policies and strategies across the country's health institutions. This move demonstrates the government's commitment to addressing the challenges associated with patient safety, particularly for individuals living with NCDs.
The federal government's focus on safe care for Nigerians living with NCDs is a welcome development. NCDs have become a major public health concern in Nigeria, with a significant impact on the country's healthcare system. By prioritizing patient safety, the government aims to reduce the risk of complications and improve health outcomes for individuals living with these conditions.
The government's efforts to strengthen clinical governance and patient safety systems will require collaboration with various stakeholders, including healthcare providers, policymakers, and patient advocacy groups. By working together, these stakeholders can help ensure that patients receive high-quality care, reducing the risk of avoidable harm and improving health outcomes.
Key points
- The federal government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring safe, coordinated and quality care for people living with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Nigeria.
- The Ministry of Health and Social Welfare developed the National Patient Safety and Care Quality Policy and Implementation Strategy in 2024.
- The National Task Force on Clinical Governance and Patient Safety was established and inaugurated in January 2026.
