Nigeria’s healthcare sector is witnessing rapid transformation, with projections indicating a 7.1 per cent growth and an estimated market value of $161.7 million by 2027.

The growth is driven by a $1.2 billion investment by the Federal Ministry of Health in infrastructure and workforce development, alongside major oncology and diagnostic expansions by the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority and increased imports under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Despite these gains, about 70 per cent of healthcare expenses in the country are still paid out-of-pocket, highlighting significant opportunities for private sector participation and innovation.
Data from Statista shows that Nigeria leads West Africa’s medical device market, which is projected to rise from $414.8 million in 2025 to $632.48 million by 2030, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.56 per cent.

Other countries in the region, including Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Senegal and Ghana, are also recording strong growth, driven by hospital modernisation, expansion in digital diagnostics and gradual progress toward universal health coverage.

Analysts say Nigeria is making steady progress toward building a more accessible, affordable and high-quality healthcare system through investments, technological advancements, regulatory reforms and a growing focus on preventive care.

However, the country’s rapidly growing population—projected by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) to reach 250 million—continues to widen gaps in both primary and specialised healthcare services.

Against this backdrop, stakeholders say the World Health Expo (WHX) Lagos 2026 will serve as a key platform to unlock investment opportunities and strengthen partnerships across the sector.

The event, scheduled to hold from June 2 to 4 at the Landmark Centre in Lagos, is expected to attract more than 500 exhibitors, over 8,000 professional participants from more than 40 countries, and about 30 speakers.

President of the Healthcare Federation of Nigeria, Njide Ndili, said the expo would promote market access and regional trade while supporting national healthcare goals.
“Leadership lies at the heart of healthcare transformation. The shift from care to capability is essential for long-term success, and these efforts must be scaled across all levels of the system,” she said.

She added that the platform would connect stakeholders, showcase best practices and support the deployment of proven healthcare solutions.
The three-day event will feature a series of leadership forums, including the Healthcare Market Access and Policy Forum on June 2, which will focus on regulatory harmonisation and AfCFTA opportunities.

The Hospital Investment and Buyer Forum, scheduled for June 3 in collaboration with ABCHealth, will highlight financing and procurement strategies for hospitals and investors.
On June 4, the Heads of Laboratory Forum, organised in partnership with the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria, will address key priorities in advancing diagnostics across West Africa.

Portfolio Director, Healthcare at Informa Markets, Tom Coleman, said the expo would translate policy ambitions into practical collaboration.
“WHX is where policy ambition becomes impactful collaboration, accelerating West Africa’s emergence as a healthcare leader under AfCFTA,” he said.

He noted that Nigeria’s growing population and expanding regional markets position the country as a key hub for healthcare investment in infrastructure, technology and services.
The event will also feature exhibitions across key sectors, including medical devices, diagnostics, healthcare services, infrastructure, wellness, laboratory services and digital health solutions.

New features include a dedicated Lab Zone with live demonstrations, a networking lounge, hands-on workshops and buyer matchmaking sessions aimed at driving business outcomes.
Organisers said the WHX platform, which also holds in Johannesburg and Nairobi, connects global healthcare brands with regional distributors and investors.

Healthcare professionals, suppliers and investors are encouraged to participate in the Lagos event to explore emerging opportunities in Africa’s evolving healthcare landscape.