The lingering challenge of life expectancy in Nigeria

Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, faces persistent challenges in improving life expectancy.

Despite a steady increase from 32.62 years in 1950 to 56.05 years in 2024, Nigeria ranks 167th globally, highlighting significant health and socioeconomic concerns.

Nigeria’s healthcare system grapples with high mortality rates, including infant mortality at 69.2 per 1,000 live births and maternal mortality at 615 deaths per 100,000 live births (World Health Organization, 2022).

Infectious diseases like malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS persist, exacerbating health challenges.

Nigeria accounts for 25% of global malaria deaths (World Health Organization, 2022).

Healthcare access remains a challenge, with disparities in infrastructure, personnel, and funding hindering access, particularly in rural areas.

Only 36% of healthcare facilities offer emergency services (National Bureau of Statistics, 2020). Economic instability, characterized by fluctuating oil prices, inflation, and poverty, impacts healthcare funding and overall well-being. 87 million Nigerians live in poverty (National Bureau of Statistics, 2020).

The country’s healthcare infrastructure is inadequate, with only 0.5 hospital beds per 1,000 people, far below the global standard (World Health Organization, 2022).

Vaccination coverage is 50%, leaving millions vulnerable to preventable diseases (World Health Organization, 2022).

Nigeria’s disease surveillance system is weak, hindering effective response to outbreaks (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2022).

Limited health education and awareness affect only 34% of Nigerians (National Bureau of Statistics, 2020).

If unaddressed, these challenges may perpetuate low life expectancy, exacerbate health disparities, hinder economic growth, and undermine Nigeria’s development prospects.

Compared to peers, Nigeria’s life expectancy lags behind: South Africa (64.1 years), Ghana (63.4 years), and Kenya (66.7 years).

To improve life expectancy, Nigeria should invest in healthcare infrastructure and technology, enhance vaccination programs and disease surveillance, promote health education and awareness, and address economic instability through diversification and poverty reduction.

Moreover, Nigeria needs to prioritize primary healthcare, focusing on preventive measures and community-based care.

Strengthening the healthcare workforce, improving supply chain management, and leveraging technology for healthcare delivery are crucial.

International partnerships and funding can support Nigeria’s healthcare development.

Innovative solutions, such as telemedicine and community health worker programs, can increase access to healthcare services.

Urgent attention is needed to address these concerns, ensure equitable access to healthcare, and improve living standards.

Nigeria’s life expectancy growth is overshadowed by persistent challenges which require a multifaceted approach, involving government, private sector, and civil society collaboration.

By prioritizing healthcare and addressing socioeconomic determinants, Nigeria can improve life expectancy and achieve sustainable development.

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