Private healthcare providers in Nigeria have called on the National Assembly to withdraw the proposed National Health Facility Regulatory Agency (NHFRA) Bill, warning that it could increase the cost of healthcare, create unnecessary bureaucracy and threaten the survival of many private hospitals.
The Healthcare Providers’ Association of Nigeria (HCPAN) made its position known during a press briefing in Lagos, arguing that the proposed agency would duplicate the responsibilities of existing health regulatory bodies rather than improve service delivery.
HCPAN National President, Dr. Austine Aipoh, said the bill could worsen the shortage of healthcare workers by encouraging more professionals to leave the country in search of better opportunities.
He also warned that multiple inspections, licensing requirements and additional compliance costs could force many private health facilities to shut down.
According to the association, the bill would place more financial pressure on healthcare providers and patients, who already struggle with high out-of-pocket medical expenses.
HCPAN stressed that it is not against regulation but believes existing agencies should be strengthened instead of creating another institution with similar responsibilities.
The association urged lawmakers to focus on improving funding for the health sector and enforcing current laws rather than establishing a new regulatory agency.
It also pledged to continue engaging the National Assembly and other stakeholders in developing a more effective and coordinated healthcare regulatory system for the country.
