The Healthcare Federation of Nigeria (HFN), in collaboration with the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain (PVAC), hosted a landmark pitch event where 14 shortlisted HFN member companies had the unique opportunity to present their innovative healthcare solutions to a panel of esteemed experts.
The event took place on Monday, October 21, 2024, and was marked by the presence of key dignitaries, including Dr. Abdu Mukhtar, National Coordinator of the Presidential Unlocking Healthcare Value Chain Initiative; Prof. Akin Abayomi, Honourable Commissioner of Health, Lagos State; Dr. Okechukwu Enelamah, former Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment; Mr. Ajibola Olomola, Partner and Head of Head of Deal Advisory at KPMG West Africa, amongst others.
The pitch event provided a dynamic platform for selected companies to showcase their cutting-edge innovations, aimed at addressing critical challenges within Nigeria’s healthcare system. Each company pitched their strategic ideas in front of a distinguished panel of healthcare professionals and investors, with the opportunity to secure funding and support from PVAC to further develop and scale their innovations.
In her opening remarks, HFN President, Dr. Pamela Ajayi, reiterated HFN’s commitment to empowering its members and fostering healthcare innovation. “We are proud to partner with PVAC to offer this platform, and we look forward to seeing the impact these innovations will have on Nigeria’s healthcare system,” Dr. Ajayi said.
“The event is part of HFN’s broader efforts to create pathways for private sector healthcare companies to gain visibility, access funding, and drive transformative change within the healthcare sector. In the coming months, HFN plans to organize more pitch events, virtual sessions, and collaborative opportunities,” she further said.
Giving his keynote address, Dr. Abdu Mukhtar emphasized the federal government’s commitment to fostering an enabling environment for healthcare innovation. He said: “This initiative is a key part of our broader vision to unlock Nigeria’s healthcare potential by empowering local companies to lead the way in innovation. Through collaborations like this, we are enabling the private sector to thrive and actively contribute to the country’s healthcare development. PVAC remains dedicated to supporting Nigerian healthcare businesses as they scale their impact.”
“Our goal to ensure that local innovative businesses are given the support they need to thrive. We believe in the potential of homegrown solutions and are committed to creating pathways for Nigerian healthcare entrepreneurs to scale their innovations. By prioritizing local businesses, we are not only driving economic growth but also building a stronger healthcare system.”
Prof. Akin Abayomi, the Honourable Commissioner of Health for Lagos State, commended HFN and PVAC for their efforts in creating this platform and underscored the significance of such initiatives in addressing the issue of brain drain. “Initiatives like this are vital in not only driving innovation but also inspiring Nigerian professionals in the diaspora to return and contribute to healthcare development. By showcasing the incredible talent and innovation within the country, we are proving that Nigeria is fertile ground for impactful healthcare solutions,” Prof. Abayomi said.
He further added: “I commend the Healthcare Federation of Nigeria and PVAC for their foresight and collaboration. Platforms like this will undoubtedly play a significant role in reducing brain drain by offering opportunities for growth, innovation, and investment in our local healthcare sector.”
The former Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Dr. Okechukwu Enelamah, who was one of the distinguished judges, expressed his delight at the initiative brought forward by HFN and PVAC. “I am truly happy about the collaborative effort that has brought us here today. This event exemplifies the power of partnerships in healthcare, and I must commend the convening power of HFN in bringing together key stakeholders from both the public and private sectors for this initiative.”
The event showcased a wide range of groundbreaking ideas from the participating companies, covering key areas such as medical technology, diagnostics, telemedicine, and healthcare delivery systems. The companies received valuable feedback from the expert panel, positioning them to further refine and implement their innovations.
HFN is an umbrella body for private-sector stakeholders dedicated to improving healthcare delivery in Nigeria. Our vision is to support the achievement of universal health coverage (UHC) through private-sector activation.