Abuja, A disease surveillance officer in Sokoto State notices a rise in suspected cholera cases through a digital reporting system. The alert triggers a rapid response, helping to contain the spread before it grows.
At a primary health centre in Kebbi State, a pregnant woman is able to deliver safely. The facility has trained staff, stable electricity, working equipment and a clear referral system.
In Abuja, public health experts review data from across the country. They track risks, guide decisions and support responses that protect millions of people.
These examples reflect the kind of impact strong and well-functioning public health institutions are expected to deliver.
The EU-supported Public Health Institutes Strengthening in Nigeria (EUSPIN) initiative shows how investment in systems, data and workforce capacity can improve health services and strengthen preparedness across the country.
Supporting Nigeria’s health reform agenda
On 11 May 2026, Nigeria’s Federal Government, with funding from the European Union and technical support from World Health Organization (WHO), launched EUSPIN at the Abuja Continental Hotel.
The event brought together government leaders, development partners, academia and civil society to strengthen collaboration on health security and public health systems.
The initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSRII). NHSRII is Nigeria’s flagship reform agenda aimed at transforming the health sector through improved financing, governance and service delivery.
Strengthening public health institutions is essential to addressing Nigeria’s dual burden of infectious diseases and rising noncommunicable conditions.
Nigeria continues to face challenges including disease outbreaks, maternal and child health gaps, climate-related health risks and rapid urban growth.
Women and children are often the most affected.
“Addressing these challenges requires strong public health intelligence and coordinated action,” said Dr Iziaq Adekunle Salako, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare.
Strengthening systems for preparedness and response
The EUSPIN initiative focuses on strengthening institutions at national and state levels. It supports workforce development, better use of data and improved coordination across sectors.
Digital tools will help health workers report cases faster and allow decision-makers to act quickly. These systems are designed to share and use data across platforms, making information more accessible.
The initiative also aims to connect frontline health services with national decision-making systems. This helps ensure that data from communities informs policy and action.
Expected results include:
- Faster detection and response to disease outbreaks
- Better use of data for decision-making
- Stronger coordination across federal, state and local health systems
“This initiative is an investment in people, systems and institutions,” said Dr Abisola Adegoke, representing the Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of Health. “It will help Nigeria respond better to health risks and protect its population.”
Partnership for sustainable impact
EUSPIN reflects a shared effort. Through joint work by the Government of Nigeria, the European Union, WHO and national partners, the initiative supports long-term health system strengthening.
“The European Union’s support reflects our commitment to Nigeria’s health priorities,” said EU Ambassador Gautier Mignot.
WHO emphasized the link between strong systems and better health outcomes.
“Public health institutions save lives every day,” said Dr Pavel Ursu, WHO Representative in Nigeria. “They improve routine care, strengthen primary health care and support better decisions through data.”
Community voices also highlight the importance of these investments.
“Strong systems build trust and help communities feel protected,” said the Emir of Shonga, Dr Haliru Yahaya
Toyin Saraki of the Wellbeing Foundation Africa noted that resilient public health systems are critical for women and children.
“Investments in data, primary health care and preparedness help services reach those who need them most,” she said.
Looking ahead
The launch of EUSPIN marks an essential step in Nigeria’s health reform journey. It supports government-led priorities and aims to build a system that is more responsive, inclusive, and prepared.
But lasting impact will depend on continued collaboration.
Sustained commitment coordinated action and continued investment from government, partners and communities will be needed to ensure these reforms translate into better health outcomes for all Nigerians.
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