The Federal Government has approved the release of N12.911 billion to major health agencies, including 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 allocation is for the fourth quarter of 2024 under the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF).
This decision was made during the eighth meeting of the Ministerial Oversight Committee (MOC) of the BHCPF in Abuja. The committee is responsible for ensuring the fund’s transparent and effective use, and it oversees the collaboration among the four agencies to implement the BHCPF’s initiatives.
Health Sector Reforms and Fund Allocation
Significant reforms of the BHCPF have been introduced under Nigeria’s Health Sector Renewal Initiative, aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s Sector-Wide Approach. These reforms, initiated in 2023, include updates to the BHCPF guidelines, changes to the operational structure, and stronger governance systems.
During the meeting, the committee confirmed the disbursement of N12.911 billion to the health agencies. A subcommittee was also established to address delays in fund disbursements, including representatives from various state health agencies, the World Health Organization, and the MOC Secretariat. The subcommittee is expected to provide a report within two weeks.
Progress in Health Sector Governance
Speaking on the sector’s progress, Prof. Muhammad Pate, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, noted that 2.4 million vulnerable Nigerians have been enrolled in the Vulnerable Groups Fund within a year. Additionally, the government’s healthcare worker training program has reached 120,000 permanent health workers, with 40,000 already trained.
While some states, like Anambra, have made significant progress, others are still lagging. “We are making strides, but the journey to improving healthcare services is ongoing, and collaboration between the Federal Government, states, and other stakeholders is critical,” Pate stated.
Key Agencies in Focus
– NHIA: Regulates and implements health insurance schemes to ensure that Nigerians have access to quality healthcare.
–NPHCDA: Oversees primary healthcare services, including immunization and maternal health initiatives.
– NCDC: Plays a central role in disease control, health promotion, and public health emergency response.
– NEMSAS: Coordinates emergency medical services to ensure a quick and effective response to medical emergencies.
These funds will play a crucial role in improving healthcare access and outcomes, particularly for vulnerable populations across Nigeria.
