The COVID-19 response in Nigeria: Adequate protection of a fragile healthcare delivery system

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the healthcare system in Nigeria. The response of the government has been one that places the health and well-being of the people at its highest priority. This was evidenced by the instituted lockdown of the country soon after the first cases emerged. Specifific information on appropriate hygiene, safety, and security was provided through the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and several health-based organizations. This provided a clear direction on what actions the citizens should take when they start to feel ill especially if they showed the classic symptoms of the disease. The purpose of this study is to review the impact of COVID-19 on the fragile healthcare system in Nigeria and proffffer recommendations. Methods:Areview of the COVID-19 response in Nigeria was hinged on highlighting the impact of the pandemic on the fragile healthcare system. Results: Recommendations and outlook were suggested to mitigate the impact of the pandemic on the fragile healthcare system in Nigeria. Conclusion: Reviewing and implementing new human resource policies in response to these changing circumstances and regulations is continually required. Continuous monitoring of the COVID-19 situation and understanding what guidance is being offered will be essential to the crisis management leadership team (task force) dedicated to leading the effort in Nigeria.