NCDC Charts Course for Health Security: Unveils Ambitious 5-Year Plan

Infostride News reports that the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has recently unveiled a forward-looking five-year strategic and implementation plan covering the period 2023-2027. This significant initiative was announced by the Director-General of the NCDC, Dr Ifedayo Adetifa, during the Health Security Partners’ meeting held in Abuja, with the theme “Vision to Action.”

Dr Adetifa emphasized that the unveiling of this strategic plan is a testament to the NCDC’s unwavering commitment to the broader ministerial agenda for the health sector. This agenda notably places health security as its fourth pillar, reflecting a holistic approach to healthcare in Nigeria. The plan also aligns seamlessly with the overarching goals outlined in both the presidential and ministerial agendas for health, underscoring the agency’s dedication to national health objectives.

One of the pivotal aspects of the 2023-2027 plan is its emphasis on digital transformation, accompanied by ambitious aspirations for high-quality crosscutting public health informatics. Dr Adetifa highlighted that these strategic components are integral to sustaining the NCDC’s robust vision. This vision, as he explained, is underpinned by clearly defined goals, supported by well-articulated implementation and delivery plans.

Reflecting on the historical context, Dr Adetifa noted, “Exactly six years ago, the NCDC inaugurated its first strategy with the theme — ‘Idea to Reality’, which outlined a roadmap for the agency to achieve its vision and mission.” He further mentioned that in 2022, the agency conducted an end-term review of the previous 2017-2022 strategy to assess successes, challenges, and lessons learned. This reflective approach served as the foundation for developing the current five-year strategic plan.

A notable shift in strategy, according to the NCDC boss, is the agency’s increased focus on strengthening subnational health security in collaboration with state and local governments. This approach aims to enhance coordination, particularly within the newly established Subnational Support Department. The strategic plan also envisions empowering the Department of Planning, Research, and Statistics with tools and training to advance monitoring, evaluation, and learning within the agency, aligning with international best practices.

The launch of the strategic and implementation plan was a significant event attended by the NCDC’s top management and key stakeholders from both the public and private sectors. Dr Adetifa reiterated the agency’s overarching vision for “a healthier and safer Nigeria through the prevention and control of diseases of public health importance.” Breaking down this vision, he outlined seven key strategic goals, 41 objectives, and 225 corresponding activities with defined outcomes for the next five years.

Furthermore, Dr Adetifa highlighted the establishment of a performance management structure designed to oversee and coordinate the execution of various initiatives. This structure aims to systematically assess the NCDC’s progress toward achieving its strategic goals. The framework is expected to streamline efforts across the agency’s diverse departments and divisions, facilitating collaboration with development partners and ensuring a unified approach to health security.

In emphasizing the importance of the strategic plan, Dr Adetifa underscored its role in prioritizing and aligning efforts to protect the health of Nigerians against emerging public health threats and evolving challenges. The comprehensive nature of the NCDC’s five-year strategic and implementation plan positions it as a roadmap for the agency’s future endeavors.

In conclusion, Infostride News recognizes the ambitious and well-articulated nature of the NCDC’s strategic plan. Aligned with the Nigerian government’s priorities for health security, this plan is poised to be a driving force in safeguarding the health of Nigerians and preventing the spread of diseases of public health importance. As the NCDC enters this new phase, it stands well-prepared to navigate the dynamic landscape of public health and contribute significantly to the well-being of the Nigerian population.