One Health Implementation at the Federal Level in Nigeria: A Qualitative Study
Abstract:
The One Health approach
continues to stand out as a pivotal model in the public health intervention
space. Sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria, grapples with being a hotspot for
infectious diseases and various public health threats, leading to significant
morbidity and mortality. The underlying cause is often linked to interactions
between humans, animals, and the environment. Traditionally, the government
response has adhered to a vertical approach, but a recent shift towards the holistic
One Health strategy has been observed. This paper critically assesses the
implementation of the One Health approach at the federal level in Nigeria. An
institutional-based qualitative method was employed in this research, involving
interviews with key actors at the federal level. Study participants were
purposively selected using a key informant interview guide, focusing on
eliciting responses regarding governance structure readiness, practical
implementation, and factors influencing the One Health implementation in
Nigeria. The analysis utilized the inductive analysis technique, and the
findings were reported in thematic categories. Key findings reveal that
stakeholders in Nigeria have a good understanding of the One Health approach
and have made efforts to collaborate across sectors. However, despite this
understanding and collaboration, significant challenges have hindered the successful
implementation of the One Health approach in public health interventions in
Nigeria. These challenges encompass a low functional status of the governance
structure, limited funding, inadequate human resources and capacity-building
initiatives, insufficient awareness creation, and the absence of policy
implementation to guide the country's One Health strategic plan.
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