Nigeria Government Allocates N50 Billion for Primary Health Fund, Introduces Executive Order to Tackle Rising Drug Prices
Written by Deborah Oyinloye on March 2, 2024
The Nigerian government has announced a significant allocation of N50 billion towards primary healthcare as part of the basic healthcare fund. The Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Muhammed Ali Pate, revealed this development during the fourth edition of the Ministerial Press Briefing in Abuja.
Pate emphasized the importance of primary healthcare in ensuring citizens’ well-being and highlighted the government’s commitment to revitalizing healthcare facilities across the nation. He noted that this infusion of funds would bolster primary healthcare services, making quality care accessible to all Nigerians.
“Investing in primary healthcare is paramount for the overall health of our citizens. We have prioritized the revitalization of primary healthcare facilities, ensuring they are adequately equipped and staffed to provide essential services to communities,” said Pate.
Furthermore, the minister announced President Bola Tinubu’s intention to issue an Executive Order aimed at addressing the escalating costs of prescription drugs. This executive action reflects the government’s determination to tackle the pressing issue of rising pharmaceutical prices.
Additionally, Pate highlighted the government’s efforts to enhance maternal and child healthcare, citing an increase in the number of women attending antenatal care and health facility deliveries. He emphasized ongoing initiatives to recruit healthcare professionals and expand health insurance coverage, with approximately 750,000 more Nigerians enrolled in health insurance since the beginning of the administration.
Moreover, Pate provided updates on the successful vaccination of eligible girls aged 9-14 years against HPV, with plans for the second phase introduction across various states in May 2024.
Regarding pharmaceuticals, Pate acknowledged the challenges posed by rising drug prices and outlined short-term and long-term strategies to address the issue. An executive order will be issued to curb escalating drug prices in the short term, while plans are underway to domesticate imported drugs within the next three years in collaboration with the Ministry of Trade.
Author: Deborah Oyinloye
With an interest in media, Deborah aims to impart the lives of people positively.
