National health institutions and the management of COVID-19 pandemic: fulfilling the sustainable development goal three (SDG-3) in Nigeria

Abstract

Abstract Background The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic posed significant challenges globally, testing the capacity of national health institutions to respond effectively. In Nigeria, the pandemic revealed systemic gaps but also demonstrated institutional resilience. This study examines the broader institutional responses to the pandemic in Nigeria, involving the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), the Presidential Task Force (PTF), the West African Health Organisation (WAHO), and state-level bodies, and their contribution toward achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Target 3.d, which focuses on strengthening national capacity for early warning, risk reduction, and management of national and global health risks. Methods A retrospective qualitative research design was employed. In-depth interviews were conducted virtually via teleconferencing with seven purposively selected top-level directors from the NCDC, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), WAHO, and the Lagos State COVID-19 Case Management and Primary Health Care teams. Data saturation guided the sample size. Thematic analysis was guided by the WHO Framework for Strengthening Health Systems (2007) and reported in accordance with the COREQ checklist. Results Findings reveal that the national response was initially hampered by severe challenges, primarily limited testing capacity, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, and widespread misinformation. In response, a multi-sectoral collaboration between federal and state governments, the private sector (e.g., CACOVID), and international partners was forged to expand diagnostics and enforce public health measures. Conclusions Nigeria’s institutional response to COVID-19 highlights the importance of robust, coordinated national health frameworks. Strengthening Nigeria’s health system through sustained investment, public-private partnerships, and proactive risk communication is essential to fulfilling SDG Target 3.d and enhancing future pandemic preparedness.