[By Abigail Philip David]
The Federal Government has approved the release of N12.91 billion for four key health agencies: the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA), the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), and the National Emergency Medical Service and Ambulance System (NEMSAS).
This decision was made during the eighth meeting of the Ministerial Oversight Committee (MOC) for the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF), held in Abuja on Friday. The funds are allocated for the fourth quarter of 2024, following the guidelines set for the BHCPF.
The MOC ensures that the fund is used effectively, with transparency and accountability, by overseeing its implementation and managing its strategic direction. The committee also monitors fund disbursement and promotes cooperation between the four key health agencies.
In a statement, the MOC highlighted its commitment to reforming the health sector, noting that reforms to the BHCPF guidelines and governance structures have been underway since the fifth MOC meeting in 2023. These reforms align with Nigeria’s Health Sector Renewal Initiative and President Bola Tinubu’s broader health sector reforms.
At the eighth MOC meeting, proposals for the adoption of revised BHCPF 2.0 Guidelines, an accountability framework, and the disbursement of funds for the fourth quarter of the 2023 financial year were presented. The committee approved the release of N12.91 billion to the NHIA, NPHCDA, NCDC, and NEMSAS for the next phase of funding.
To address delays in fund disbursement, a subcommittee involving representatives from state health agencies, the World Health Organization, and other stakeholders will review the process and report back within two weeks.
Speaking to journalists, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, said the government is making significant progress in improving the health sector’s governance and the well-being of the population. He noted that 2.4 million vulnerable Nigerians have been enrolled in the Vulnerable Groups Fund over the past year, which helps provide healthcare access to those most in need.
Pate also highlighted ongoing healthcare worker training, with 120,000 permanent workers targeted as part of President Tinubu’s initiative, and 40,000 already trained. He acknowledged the challenges of the health sector but expressed optimism about continued progress.
“Some states are excelling, like Anambra, while others are still catching up. But we are moving forward together with the Federal Government, states, and other stakeholders to make healthcare services available to the people,” Pate concluded.
