THISDAY

FG to Disburse N25bn Healthcare Enhancemen­t Funds to States

- Onyebuchi Ezigbo

The federal government has approved the disburseme­nt of N25 billion through the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) to bolster healthcare infrastruc­ture in the states.

The Coordinati­ng Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammed Pate, made this known yesterday in Abuja at the sixth meeting of the BHCPF Ministeria­l Oversight Committee.

Pate said the funds were designated for direct facility financing and workforce incentives across the states.

The minister said that the initiative was in line with President Bola

Tinubu’s agenda and commitment to improving healthcare for Nigerian women, children, and vulnerable population­s.

He said the disburseme­nt would be facilitate­d through gateways, including the National Primary Health Care Developmen­t Agency (NPHCDA), and National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA).

“This substantia­l investment underscore­s our dedication to enhancing healthcare infrastruc­ture and supporting our healthcare workforce.

“In addition to direct facility financing and workforce incentives, a portion of the funds will be allocated by the NHIA to provide financial protection for the poorest and most vulnerable population­s, further ensuring equitable access to healthcare services,” he added.

The minister announced the establishm­ent of a dedicated reporting mechanism for citizens to report any misuse or deviation from guidelines regarding the disburseme­nt of the funds.

“An email address and reporting line will be made available, enabling citizens to actively participat­e in monitoring fund implementa­tion.

“We are committed to ensuring that healthcare resources are utilised effectivel­y and transparen­tly.

“Regular monitoring and oversight will be conducted to uphold the fiduciary integrity of healthcare systems, ensuring that Nigerians benefit from these resources,” Pate said.

Dr. Oyebanji Filani, who spoke on behalf of Commission­ers for Health and Human Services, pledged that all the states would prioritise the quality of care provided to Nigerians even after leaving the hospital.

Filani highlighte­d their plan to strengthen public health units and ensure frontline health workers and civil servants receive the necessary support.

“We are committed to ensuring that every Nigerian has access to good quality healthcare services.

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