Nigeria Approves N21.2m Outbreak Response Funds for States

The Federal Government of Nigeria has approved the release of N21.2 million for outbreak response funds for each state, aimed at enhancing the country's preparedness against public health threats, particularly the Ebola virus disease (EVD). This decision was announced by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare on Friday.

The funds, which represent 50 percent of the allocated amount, are part of a broader effort to strengthen public health resource management and ensure effective outbreak response. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) are involved in the allocation process.

Despite no confirmed cases of Ebola in Nigeria, the government emphasizes the importance of proactive measures and effective coordination in disease prevention and response. The approval reflects the government's commitment to health security and the prudent management of public resources, with strict adherence to financial reporting requirements for states receiving the funds.