INTRODUCTION TO CONTEMPORARY PUBLIC HEALTH ISSUES

5. Post-Independence (1960-Present)

1960s-1970s:

After Nigeria gained independence in 1960, there was a renewed focus on establishing a health system that would address the country’s emerging health needs. The government began working on a national health policy to deal with both infectious diseases and other health challenges faced by the newly independent country.

• Emerging Health Issues: Early efforts concentrated on addressing the burden of infectious diseases like malaria, cholera, tuberculosis, and measles, which were widespread across the country.
• Health Policy Development: In the 1970s, the Nigerian government laid the foundation for a national health system, although it faced challenges related to limited resources and widespread poverty.

1980s:

The Primary Health Care (PHC) approach became the cornerstone of Nigeria’s health strategy during the 1980s. This approach emphasized decentralized healthcare to bring medical services to the grassroots level.

PHC Focus: The goal was to provide basic health services to all Nigerians, especially those in rural and underserved areas. PHC services included immunization, maternal health services, and health education.