If I was in charge, I’d say the first thing Abuja needs is way more funding for public hospitals, but actually spent on the hospitals and not just lost in paperwork. A friend of mine’s mom works at Kubwa General, and she told me they need more doctors, more nurses, and just more space for patients, not just new equipment. I think the government should pass rules making sure health budgets are transparent, and maybe watchdog groups to make sure the money goes where it’s supposed to.

The government also needs to offer better pay and safer working conditions so nurses and doctors don’t keep leaving for jobs overseas. I heard from my cousin that nearly 16,000 doctors have left Nigeria! That’s wild. The rules about hiring need to be easier, so hospitals can fill jobs quickly. They should also make laws that encourage private companies to get involved in healthcare, but in a way regular people can afford. Overall, it all comes down to the government actually listening to hospital workers and patients, and then passing laws that help, not just talk.