Tinubu Approves National Health Technology Office, Appoints Pioneer Coordinator

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the establishment of a National Health Technology Office and appointed a pioneer coordinator to oversee its operations, marking a significant step towards modernising Nigeria’s healthcare system through digital innovation.

The directive, which forms part of the administration’s broader health sector reform agenda, is aimed at harnessing technology to improve healthcare delivery, streamline data management, and enhance policy implementation across all levels of care.

According to official sources, the newly approved office will serve as the central coordinating body for health technology initiatives nationwide, ensuring seamless integration of digital tools, electronic health records, telemedicine, and data-driven decision-making within the health sector.

The pioneer coordinator, whose appointment takes effect immediately, will be responsible for developing a comprehensive national health technology framework, coordinating with relevant ministries, agencies, and private sector partners, and driving the adoption of innovative health solutions across the country.

The Presidency emphasised that the establishment of the office aligns with global best practices and Nigeria’s commitment to achieving universal health coverage through strategic digital transformation.

“The integration of technology into healthcare is no longer optional; it is a necessity. This office will ensure that Nigeria leverages digital tools to improve patient care, strengthen health systems, and enhance transparency in healthcare administration,” a government source stated.

The move is expected to address long-standing challenges in Nigeria’s health sector, including fragmented data systems, inefficient record-keeping, and limited access to remote healthcare services. By centralising health technology coordination, the government aims to create a more responsive, efficient, and patient-centred healthcare system.

Health sector experts and technology advocates have welcomed the development, describing it as a timely and strategic intervention that could significantly improve healthcare outcomes and operational efficiency.

They, however, called for adequate funding, capacity building, and robust data protection frameworks to ensure the successful implementation of the office’s mandate and safeguard patient privacy.

The National Health Technology Office is expected to work closely with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), state health ministries, and international development partners to drive digital health initiatives nationwide.

As the office commences operations, attention will be focused on the rollout of its strategic framework and the tangible impact it will have on healthcare delivery, disease surveillance, and health system strengthening across the country.