For millions of people in low-income countries, access to quality healthcare remains a challenge. Dr. Samson Oboche Agbo, a Chevening alumnus and public health expert, is working to change that.
Dr. Agbo’s journey began in 1993 when he was awarded a Chevening Scholarship to pursue an MSc in Epidemiology at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. This experience gave him the tools and perspective to address some of the most pressing challenges in global health, setting him on a path to tackle healthcare funding and resource management issues in low- and middle-income countries.
Healthcare systems in these countries face significant hurdles. Funding often relies on international aid, which can be unreliable, and the money that is available isn’t always distributed fairly. Urban areas typically receive more resources, while rural communities are left with fewer services and limited access to care. This uneven distribution hits the poorest the hardest, forcing many to pay out of pocket for healthcare they can barely afford.
Drawing on the skills and global insights gained during his Chevening experience, Dr. Agbo has focused on practical, sustainable solutions. He has worked with global organisations such as the World Health Organisation, UNICEF and Save the Children across multiple countries such as Kenya, Nigeria and Tanzania to help governments align their health spending with real priorities. He has also worked to strengthen accountability in healthcare, ensuring that funds are used efficiently and reach the communities that need them most.
At the heart of Dr. Agbo’s efforts is a commitment to equity. By involving local communities in the planning and budgeting process, he ensures that healthcare decisions reflect the needs and voices of the people they affect. When citizens are involved in decision-making, resources are more likely to go toward what’s truly needed, such as hiring medical staff or stocking rural clinics with essential medicines. This participatory approach fosters trust, transparency, and long-term impact.
Dr. Agbo’s work has not only transformed healthcare budgeting in these nations but has also influenced global practices. With a focus on reducing reliance on unstable international aid and addressing disparities between urban and rural health services, he has pioneered innovative budgeting reforms that promote sustainable and equitable healthcare systems. His efforts have helped ensure that limited resources are allocated efficiently, improving access to essential care for vulnerable communities.
Beyond his work in Kenya, Nigeria, and Tanzania, Dr. Agbo has become a thought leader in the field, sharing insights through webinars, conferences, and academic publications. His contributions have helped shape global conversations on health budgeting and inspired other low- and middle-income countries to adopt innovative practices. Looking ahead, Dr. Agbo is determined to continue driving change. His plans include training local health officials in effective budgeting and financial management, advocating for stronger governance structures, and expanding community engagement initiatives. His vision is clear: to build healthcare systems that are inclusive, efficient, and sustainable.
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