Power outages are crippling Nigeria’s healthcare system, with the federal government revealing that between 60 and 70 percent of health facilities experience frequent electricity cuts or lack power entirely. The issue is affecting the delivery of medical services and patient outcomes, according to officials. Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Adekunle Salako, highlighted the growing concern over unreliable power supply in both primary and tertiary care centers.
The problem has become a major challenge for healthcare workers and patients alike. Without consistent electricity, essential medical equipment such as ventilators and refrigerators for storing vaccines cannot function properly. This has led to delays in treatments and increased risks for patients, particularly in rural areas where power infrastructure is weaker.
While the government has acknowledged the crisis, there are no immediate plans to address the issue. Meanwhile, experts suggest that investing in renewable energy solutions could offer a long-term fix. The situation underscores the urgent need for reliable power supply to ensure quality healthcare across the country.
The ongoing power shortages highlight a broader infrastructure challenge that continues to hinder Nigeria’s development. As the government faces pressure to improve services, the lack of electricity remains a critical barrier to progress.
