The Social Democratic Party (SDP) presidential candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo, has promised to introduce free mandatory medical screening for every Nigerian twice a year if elected president in 2027.
Adebayo made the pledge during the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Personality Interview Series on Sunday in Abuja, where he outlined his proposed reforms for the health sector.
He said the absence of regular health checks and family doctors had forced many Nigerians to seek medical attention only after developing symptoms, stressing the need to shift from treatment to prevention and early detection.
According to him, every Nigerian would have a government accessible medical record linked to their National Identification Number (NIN), which would also serve as their medical insurance number.
He said citizens would receive notifications informing them when to report for their compulsory free medical screening twice a year.
Adebayo also promised improved cancer screening, greater investment in primary healthcare, vaccination and access to essential medicines.
He said his administration would prioritise better welfare and working conditions for doctors, nurses, radiographers and other healthcare professionals through housing, transportation, training and educational support for their children.
The SDP candidate further pledged increased investment in public hospital infrastructure and expansion of medical education to address Nigeria’s shortage of healthcare professionals.
Adebayo described medical tourism as a reflection of weaknesses in Nigeria’s healthcare system and promised an integrated approach linking healthcare with electricity, roads, nutrition, sanitation and housing.
He said the reforms would strengthen Nigeria’s health system and reduce citizens’ dependence on foreign hospitals.
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