From Atiku Sarki, Abuja
The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved a significant funding boost for Nigeria’s healthcare sector, allocating $1.07 billion for the Human Capital Opportunities for Prosperity and Equity (HOPE) program, alongside N4.8 billion for HIV/AIDS treatment expansion.
The announcement, made by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, highlighted the approval of two concessional loans of $500 million each from the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA), along with an additional $70 million in grant funding from other international partners.
In his address, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, explained that the financing is aligned with the administration’s focus on improving human capital development, particularly in the healthcare sector.
“This financing will support recruitment, training, and retention of healthcare workers and teachers at the subnational level,” Prof. Pate said, further emphasizing that $500 million will be directed toward strengthening the primary healthcare system, especially emergency maternal and child health services.
As part of the broader healthcare reform, the council also approved N4.8 billion for the procurement of 150,000 HIV treatment packs to be distributed over the next four months. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to providing life-saving treatments and reducing healthcare costs for vulnerable populations.
In addition, the FEC discussed the implications of recent policy changes by the U.S. government, particularly regarding funding for HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria programs in Nigeria. A multi-ministerial committee, which includes representatives from the Ministries of Finance, Health, Defense, and Environment, as well as the Governors’ Forum, has been tasked with ensuring a smooth transition and developing a sustainability plan to address potential funding gaps.
Prof. Pate reassured Nigerians, saying, “This administration is committed to ensuring that those receiving treatment do not experience interruptions.” He also expressed appreciation for the U.S. government’s past contributions and reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening its healthcare system with domestic resources.
These funding approvals mark a major step toward improving Nigeria’s healthcare system, with the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu prioritizing human capital development, healthcare reform, and financial sustainability for long-term improvements in the nation’s health sector.