Nigeria's Health Minister Pate Advocates for NCD Patient Safety

On September 21, 2026, the Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Muhammad Ali Pate, emphasized its commitment to improving clinical governance and patient safety systems in the country. This announcement was made during the commemoration of World Patient Safety Day 2026 in Abuja, under the theme “Safe Care for Non-communicable Diseases” and the slogan “Safe care for life!” Prof. Pate highlighted the significant health burden posed by non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular diseases, cancers, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases, which often require extensive interaction with the healthcare system.

He stressed the importance of patient safety in healthcare delivery, ensuring that the right care is provided to the right patient at the right time while minimizing avoidable harm. The minister also mentioned the development of the National Patient Safety and Care Quality Policy and Implementation Strategy in 2024 and the establishment of the National Task Force on Clinical Governance and Patient Safety in January 2026.