ICPC and CSJ Report Unveils Corruption in Nigeria's Healthcare

A report by the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) and Central Social Justice (CSJ) has exposed critical corruption risks within Nigeria's primary healthcare system, ten years after an initial assessment. The review indicates that while some progress has been made, it is insufficient for the nation's primary healthcare development.

The report revisits the 2015 Corruption Risk Assessment, which aimed to identify financial vulnerabilities within the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA). It highlights that despite existing policies, weak enforcement and fragmented governance structures dilute accountability.

The NPHCDA's regulatory authority is constrained, limiting its ability to enforce standards nationwide. The report warns that corruption thrives due to overlapping mandates and inadequate community involvement in healthcare management.

It also points out financial risks related to the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF), which faces issues like late fund disbursement and pressure on officials to approve expenditures that do not meet eligibility criteria. The report calls for stronger community accountability and improved financial controls to mitigate these risks.