Nigeria has called for equitable pandemic financing and vaccine access at the United Nations, urging global cooperation to address disparities in health preparedness and response mechanisms. The nation’s demands were articulated during a high-level meeting on Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response (PPPR) at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, held on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). The statement was delivered by Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Iziaq Salako, on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, emphasizing the need for a more inclusive global health framework.
Salako highlighted that effective pandemic preparedness hinges on robust public health systems capable of detecting and responding to threats before they escalate into crises. He underscored the importance of strengthening national institutions, expanding digital disease surveillance, and institutionalizing the 7-1-7 approach—a strategy requiring countries to detect public health threats within seven days, notify authorities within one day, and initiate responses within seven days. This framework, he argued, is critical for ensuring rapid and coordinated action during health emergencies.
The minister also emphasized the necessity of equitable access to vaccines, diagnostics, and therapeutics, particularly for low- and middle-income countries. Nigeria, he stated, is advocating for sustainable financing mechanisms, technology transfer, and enhanced domestic manufacturing capacity in Africa to bolster resilience against future health threats. “Equity must remain central to the global PPPR agenda,” Salako asserted, stressing that nations contributing pathogens should receive fair and timely benefits from the development of medical innovations.
Nigeria’s priorities include strengthening national ownership, governance, and legal preparedness, as well as advancing prevention-focused health systems and integrated One Health approaches. The country is expanding its public health laboratory network to cover all 36 states and supporting Public Health Emergency Operations Centres to manage outbreaks such as Lassa fever, cholera, and meningitis. Salako noted that Nigeria’s Joint External Evaluation (JEE) score improved from 39% in 2017 to 54% in 2023, reflecting progress in health security capacity.
The World Bank’s $250 million Health Security Programme, implemented under a One Health framework, is further supporting Nigeria’s efforts to enhance health security at federal and state levels. Salako also called for antimicrobial resistance (AMR) to be prioritized in global pandemic preparedness agendas, describing it as a “current public health threat and a multiplier of pandemic risks.” Nigeria plans to host the fifth Global High-Level Ministerial Conference on AMR in December 2026, marking the first such event in Africa. This conference aims to accelerate One Health action and advance the priorities of low- and middle-income countries.
Salako stressed the importance of community engagement in pandemic preparedness, arguing that public trust must be cultivated proactively rather than reactively. He called for sustained investment in risk communication, social listening, and infodemic management to ensure communities are informed and empowered. “National ownership and global solidarity must advance together,” he said, advocating for a global pandemic preparedness framework that is equitable, sustainable, and accountable.
The minister’s remarks come amid growing concerns over the global health financing gap, which has left many developing nations vulnerable to future outbreaks. Nigeria’s push for fairer financing aligns with broader calls from African leaders for increased support to address systemic underinvestment in health systems. Salako noted that Nigeria remains committed to strengthening both national and regional capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to public health threats, while advocating for a more just global health architecture.
Public health experts have welcomed Nigeria’s stance, highlighting the critical role of equitable access to vaccines and diagnostics in mitigating the impact of pandemics. However, challenges persist, including limited manufacturing capacity in Africa and the need for stronger international collaboration. Salako acknowledged these hurdles but emphasized that Nigeria’s efforts to build domestic resilience, such as expanding genomic sequencing and multi-hazard preparedness, are essential steps toward self-reliance.
The 81st UNGA, where Nigeria’s statement was delivered, has seen world leaders stress the importance of sustained investment in pandemic preparedness. Delegates from across the globe have reiterated the need for a coordinated approach to health security, with many emphasizing the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic. Nigeria’s advocacy for a more inclusive global health agenda has resonated with several African nations, which have long called for greater representation in decision-making processes.
Nigeria’s commitment to the One Health approach—integrating human, animal, and environmental health—has also drawn attention. The country is strengthening antimicrobial resistance governance and infection prevention programs, while expanding emergency workforce capacity at national and sub-national levels. Salako highlighted that these initiatives are vital for addressing complex health challenges that transcend traditional boundaries.
The upcoming AMR conference in 2026 is expected to serve as a platform for global dialogue on combating drug-resistant infections, a growing threat that could undermine pandemic response efforts. Salako described AMR as a “silent pandemic” that requires urgent action, particularly in regions with limited healthcare resources. Nigeria’s leadership in hosting this event underscores its growing role in shaping global health policy.
In addition to its focus on financing and preparedness, Nigeria has also emphasized the need for regional and global solidarity. Salako called for accountability mechanisms to ensure that commitments made during international health summits translate into tangible actions. He reiterated Nigeria’s dedication to supporting a pandemic preparedness framework that prioritizes the needs of vulnerable populations and fosters collaboration across borders.
The statement by Salako has been widely covered in Nigerian media, with analysts noting its significance in positioning the country as a leader in advocating for equitable health policies. The call for fairer pandemic financing and vaccine access aligns with Nigeria’s broader efforts to address systemic inequalities in global health governance. As the world grapples with the ongoing challenges of health security, Nigeria’s voice is increasingly seen as a critical component of the global conversation.
The implications of Nigeria’s demands extend beyond its borders, as they reflect a broader movement for health equity in the Global South. By pushing for sustainable financing and technology transfer, Nigeria is challenging the status quo and advocating for a more just distribution of resources. This approach not only benefits the nation but also sets a precedent for other developing countries seeking to strengthen their health systems.
Nigeria’s participation in the UNGA meeting highlights its commitment to multilateralism and global cooperation. The country’s emphasis on community engagement, technological innovation, and regional partnerships underscores a holistic approach to pandemic preparedness. As the world continues to navigate the complexities of health security, Nigeria’s advocacy for equity and solidarity remains a beacon of hope for many nations striving to build resilient health systems.
The call for equitable pandemic financing and vaccine access is part of a larger narrative about the need for systemic change in global health. Nigeria’s leadership in this arena demonstrates the potential for African nations to shape international policies that reflect their unique challenges and priorities. By championing these issues, Nigeria is not only safeguarding its own interests but also contributing to a more inclusive and effective global health architecture.
The minister’s address at the UNGA meeting has sparked renewed discussions about the role of international organizations in addressing health disparities. As Nigeria continues to advocate for fairer financing and greater access to medical resources, its efforts are likely to influence future negotiations and policy decisions. The country’s proactive stance on pandemic preparedness serves as a reminder of the importance of collective action in the face of global health threats.
In conclusion, Nigeria’s push for equitable pandemic financing and vaccine access at the UN meeting reflects its commitment to a more just and resilient global health system. By prioritizing national ownership, regional cooperation, and international solidarity, the country is setting a precedent for other nations to follow. As the world prepares for future health challenges, Nigeria’s advocacy for equity and accountability will remain a cornerstone of its public health strategy.
The call for equitable pandemic financing and vaccine access at the UN meeting underscores the urgent need for global cooperation in addressing health disparities. Nigeria’s leadership in this arena highlights the importance of inclusive policies that prioritize the needs of vulnerable populations. As the country continues to strengthen its health systems and advocate for fairer global health frameworks, its efforts will play a crucial role in shaping the future of pandemic preparedness and response.