NEHCAF decries meagre N36m release from N218bn health allocation
North East Health Awareness Forum Questions Funding Discrepancies in Nigeria’s Health Sector
The North East Health Awareness Forum (NEHCAF) has expressed serious concerns regarding the release of only N36 million from the N218 billion allocated for Nigeria’s federal health sector. This amount represents less than 0.02 percent of the approved capital funds.
In a statement signed by Chairman Abdullahi Ahmad and Secretary Ummu Kulsum Rabiu, the forum highlighted the need for an investigation into the funding process to ensure transparency and accountability. They noted that media reports quote Health and Social Welfare Minister Professor Mohammed Ali Pate, confirming the limited amount released for capital projects in the health sector.
“It is alarming to learn that only N36 million has been received by the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare out of the staggering N218 billion earmarked for this critical sector,” the statement said. The forum further emphasized that Nigerians deserve a healthcare system that is adequately funded and equipped to meet the population’s needs, particularly within a democratic framework.
NEHCAF urged relevant authorities, civil society organizations, and the media to collaborate in addressing the funding disparities and improving accountability within the health sector.
