By Emmanuella Oghenetega
The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved a total of $1.07 billion in financing for healthcare sector reforms under the Human Capital Opportunities for Prosperity and Equity (HOPE) program, as well as a N4.8 billion allocation for HIV treatment, signaling a major investment in Nigeria’s health sector.
A statement signed by Alaba Balogun
Deputy Director, Information & Public Relations, revealed that the announcement was made by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, who disclosed that the World Bank’s concessional financing arm, the International Development Association (IDA), has provided two concessional loans of $500 million each, alongside $70 million in grant funding from other international bodies.
Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, elaborated on the key components of the financing, stating that the HOPE program aligned with the administration’s agenda to strengthen human capital development.
Elaborating further, Prof. Pate explained that the funds will be directed towards improving governance in healthcare and enhancing primary healthcare services nationwide.
He said: “This financing will support recruitment, training, and retention of healthcare workers and teachers at the subnational level,” Pate said.
“Additionally, $500 million is dedicated to expanding the quality, utilization, and resilience of the primary healthcare system, including emergency maternal and child health services.”
As part of a broader healthcare reforms, the council also approved N4.8 billion for the procurement of 150,000 HIV treatment packs over the next four months.
Pate emphasized that the initiative, underscored the federal government’s commitment to providing life-saving treatment and reducing healthcare costs for vulnerable populations.
Furthermore, the FEC discussed the implications of recent U.S. policy changes on Nigeria’s health programs, particularly regarding HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria funding.
A multi-ministerial committee, including representatives from the Ministries of Finance, Health, Defense, and Environment, as well as the Governors’ Forum, has been tasked with developing a transition and sustainability plan to mitigate potential funding disruptions.
“This administration is committed to ensuring that those receiving treatment do not experience interruptions,” Pate assured. “We appreciate the U.S. government’s contributions over the years and remain committed to a constructive partnership while strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system with domestic resources.”
