Coalition Demands 10% Health Budget Allocation for 2026

The Health Sector Reform Coalition (HSRC), represented by Chairperson Dr. Mustafa Lecki, has urged the Nigerian government to allocate at least 10% of the overall budget to the health sector in the 2026 budget.

During a press conference in Abuja, they highlighted the severe under-release of capital funds in the 2025 budget, which amounted to N36 million out of an approved N218 billion allocation. Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Ali Pate, indicated that meeting a 15% benchmark for health funding is challenging due to resource constraints.

Dr. Lecki emphasized that the delays in capital fund release undermine Nigeria's credibility as a reliable partner in global health financing, jeopardizing long-term health infrastructure projects.

Amina Haledu Muhammad reported that N168 billion for immunization and N6 billion for family planning remain unreleased, while Uzodinma Adiriej described the 0.016% release rate for 2025 capital health funds as disastrous, warning that it compromises vaccine safety and erodes donor confidence.