Health Minister urges pharma companies to use government waivers to boost inhaler affordability for Nigerians

Pate made the appeal in Abuja on Tuesday during the commemoration of World Asthma Day, themed “Make Inhaled Treatments Accessible for All.” 

In his statement, Pate reaffirmed the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare’s commitment to reducing the burden of asthma and ensuring equitable access to life-saving inhaled treatments for all Nigerians.

Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that affects millions globally, including a significant number of Nigerians.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) 2020 data, Nigeria recorded 8,192 asthma-related deaths, accounting for 0.55% of total deaths, placing us 58th globally.

These figures are a sober reminder of the urgent need for collective action to strengthen asthma prevention, diagnosis and management in our country.

In response to this, the Federal Government has taken deliberate steps to reduce barriers to care and improve asthma outcomes through the following strategic interventions, in line with this year’s theme.

According to him, the Nigeria Package of Essential Non-Communicable Disease Prevention and Control (NIG-PEN) has also been integrated into PHC services. This ensures early diagnosis, routine screening, and sustained management of asthma and other NCDs.

“These actions reflect our strategic alignment with the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative and our commitment to Universal Health Coverage, where no Nigerian is left behind in accessing quality, affordable healthcare,” Pate said.

He called on healthcare providers to prioritize asthma education, early diagnosis, and proper treatment procedures, while also encouraging communities and families to support patients by promoting treatment adherence and asthma-friendly environments.

Pate further appealed to civil society groups and the media to help raise awareness and reduce the stigma associated with asthma.

He urged collective action to ensure that breathing freely is not a luxury, but a right accessible to every Nigerian, everywhere.