Nigeria Disburses N32.9 Billion for Primary Healthcare

The Federal Government of Nigeria has recently disbursed N32.9 billion to support more than 8,300 primary healthcare centres across the country, marking a significant step towards improving healthcare access for citizens. This initiative is part of a sustained investment strategy through the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund established under the National Health Act of 2014.

Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, disclosed that a total of N339 billion has been disbursed over the last 12 years, with N235 billion released in the past three years. The government is also working to increase the statutory allocation to the fund from one percent to two percent of the Consolidated Revenue Fund.

While the recent funding is commendable, the article stresses the need for continuous and transparent funding to ensure that primary healthcare centres remain functional and effective in delivering services, particularly in rural and underserved communities.