2O25 Africa Digital Health Summit: FG Heralds Vision for Healthcare Delivery

By Toffa Momoh

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to transforming Nigeria’s healthcare landscape through digital innovation, data systems, and artificial intelligence at the 5th Africa Digital Health Summit (ADHS 2025), held in Lagos.

Speaking at the high-level summit, the Honourable Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, described digital health as a game-changer in the drive towards universal health coverage and resilient health systems across the continent.

“Digital technologies are no longer optional; they are essential for reducing healthcare gaps, ending financial hardship, and improving health outcomes for all Nigerians,” he stated.

The two-day summit, themed “Strengthening Health Systems Through Digital Innovation, Data, and AI,” brought together policymakers, health innovators, academics, development partners, and private sector players under one roof to explore transformative solutions.

Dr Salako applauded Premier Medical Systems and its founder, Dr Niyi Osamiluyi, for spearheading a platform that showcases practical tools like telemedicine, AI-powered diagnostics, mobile health apps, and electronic medical records — all helping to reimagine healthcare delivery.

He also unveiled the Nigeria Digital in Health Initiative (NDHI), designed to drive President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda by ensuring healthcare is accessible to all Nigerians, regardless of location or income. “This initiative will not only set digital health standards and enhance system interoperability but also create millions of jobs, tapping into the talent of Nigeria’s youth,” he added.

The Minister emphasised the crucial role of private sector innovation and investment, assuring that government is building a favourable policy environment to support their efforts.

He further urged state governments and commissioners of health to align with national strategies to ensure nationwide impact.

But while celebrating progress, Dr Salako also sounded a note of caution. “We must shield our digital health systems from rising cyber threats and protect patient data with the highest standards of privacy,” he warned, revealing plans for a National Stakeholders Dialogue on Power in Health to tackle energy-related challenges in digital health deployment.

Declaring the summit open, he called for continued multi-sectoral collaboration to unlock Africa’s full potential through scalable, inclusive, and secure digital health innovations.

The summit closes with renewed optimism for a future where no Nigerian is left behind in accessing quality, tech-driven healthcare.