Pate defends medical, says individuals free to choose

The coordinating minister for Health and Social Welfare, Mohammed Ali Pate, stated that Nigerians should not be limited in their pursuit of medical care within the country.

Pate emphasized that individuals, especially the elite, have the right to decide where to seek medical services, including medical tourism. He made these remarks during a Friday evening appearance on Channels Television’s “Politics Today.”

He argued against the notion of a restrictive healthcare system, noting that Nigeria does not operate under a communist regime that would dictate personal choices. He highlighted that leaders from other African nations also seek medical treatment in Nigeria.

According to Pate, Nigeria boasts “well-designed, well-structured, and properly equipped” healthcare facilities. However, he acknowledged that a narrative has emerged suggesting the healthcare system is ineffective.

“There’s a perception that we have nothing here, which undermines our self-respect. If I mentioned that senior leaders from other African countries come to Nigeria for healthcare, would you believe it?” he questioned.

He urged people not to conflate the quality of healthcare available with individual choices, asserting that everyone has the right to choose their destination for medical care. “We are not in a communist system where individuals are bound to one option,” he said.

Pate pointed out that Nigeria has competent healthcare professionals, including doctors and nurses, who work diligently to provide quality services. He noted that while some individuals make informed choices, others might propagate the idea that healthcare in Nigeria is subpar.

When asked if the State House clinic could adequately meet the healthcare needs of the country’s leaders, Pate affirmed, “I think it is sufficient,” but stressed that the real focus should be on addressing the inequalities in healthcare access faced by the wider Nigerian population.