The Corona Virus (Covid-19) Pandemic and the Challenge of Healthcare Infrastructure in Nigeria: what Role for Public-Private Partnerships?

Abstract

While it is not new that Nigeria is challenged by a huge infrastructure deficit, the COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the country's comatose healthcare system. Given the country's dwindling revenue, massive debt profile and the inability of the public-sector to efficiently manage public facilities in the country, this paper examines how the public-private partnership model of infrastructure procurement can be deployed as a solution for Nigeria's healthcare crisis. In addition to the above, this paper takes a look at how a partnership with the private sector can aid Nigeria's quest towards achieving healthcare-related Sustainable Development Goals. The paper also considers two healthcare-based projects as case studies to serve as lessons for future projects in the country. Among others, the paper recommends a holistic long-term solution for the country's healthcare needs.