FG approves ₦65 Billion to boost primary healthcare

The Federal Government has approved the disbursement of over ₦65 billion as part of its ongoing commitment to strengthen primary healthcare delivery and accelerate progress towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in Nigeria.

Speaking at the 11th Ministerial Oversight Committee (MOC) meeting held in Abuja, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, revealed that more than 37 million healthcare visits have been supported through the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF)—a significant milestone in Nigeria’s pursuit of UHC.

According to Prof Pate, ₦32.88 billion from the 2025 first-quarter release has been approved to cover BHCPF implementation for both the first and second quarters.

“This allocation, split evenly at ₦16.44 billion per quarter, aligns with the 2020 BHCPF Guidelines and will ensure the continuity of essential health financing activities,” he stated. “In addition, ₦32.88 billion has been approved for the third quarter, with disbursement expected by the end of August or once funds are released by the relevant authorities.”

Prof Pate further explained that recent fiscal reforms, including Presidential Executive Orders aimed at unlocking local healthcare manufacturing and the recently signed Tax Reform Bill, are helping to build a sustainable financial base for the health sector—reducing reliance on external funding.

He also addressed pressing issues in tuberculosis control, noting that around 50,000 Nigerians who tested positive for the disease have yet to begin treatment. He assured stakeholders that the 2025 national budget includes targeted provisions to bridge this gap, supported by improved diagnostic capacity that has earned Nigeria global commendation.

“This effort will be bolstered by enhanced diagnostic infrastructure—an area where Nigeria has achieved international recognition,” he said.

Also speaking at the event, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Salako, emphasised that transparency and inclusiveness are vital to the effective implementation of the BHCPF.

He praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Executive Order for unlocking the healthcare value chain and noted that progress shared during the MOC meeting reflects the administration’s commitment to revitalising the sector.

Dr Oyebanji Filani, Chairman of the Nigerian Health Commissioners’ Forum and Commissioner for Health in Ekiti State, commended the Federal Government for prioritising primary healthcare reform.

“Primary healthcare centres across the country are being renovated. Beyond infrastructure, we are equipping facilities, training personnel, and ensuring the consistent availability of essential commodities to deliver quality care,” he stated.

Stakeholders at the meeting reaffirmed their collective commitment to deepen reforms, expand implementation, and attract private sector investment to strengthen Nigeria’s primary healthcare system.