Outbreak Response Fund
Federal Government Releases Funds for Outbreak Preparedness
The Federal Government of Nigeria has approved the allocation of State Outbreak Investigation and Response Funds (S-OIRF) to enhance outbreak preparedness and emergency response initiatives nationwide. This decision is part of ongoing efforts to reinforce Nigeria’s readiness against the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) and other emerging public health threats.
A statement from Ado Bako, Assistant Director of Information and Public Relations, announced that the funding approval was granted by Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, on June 20, 2026. The disbursement authorizes the release of 50 percent of the S-OIRF allocation, totaling ₦21.2 million for each state. These funds will be distributed through the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) as part of the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF).
The intervention is designed to supplement broader federal efforts aimed at bolstering national preparedness and response systems. This includes the initiatives of the multi-sectoral Presidential Task Force on Ebola Preparedness and Other Health Threats, which is chaired by Chief of Staff to the President, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila.
While Nigeria has not reported any confirmed cases of EVD, government officials emphasized that the funding aims to equip states with the necessary resources to enhance surveillance systems, strengthen preparedness measures, and improve rapid response capabilities during public health emergencies.
The statement outlined that this funding represents a one-time special provision to facilitate critical preparedness amid ongoing public health concerns, while upholding principles of transparency and prudent resource management.
In his capacity as Chairman of the BHCPF Ministerial Oversight Committee, Prof. Pate also instructed all beneficiary states to account for both current and previously disbursed outbreak response funds within six months, ensuring compliance with established financial management and accountability standards.
Prof. Pate reiterated the importance of balancing preparedness with accountability. “Preparedness remains one of the most effective tools for protecting public health,” he stated. “While it is essential for states to have timely access to necessary resources, it is equally important that public funds are managed responsibly and accounted for according to regulatory frameworks.”
He affirmed the government’s commitment to health security and accountability, pledging continued support for states in enhancing their capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to public health threats while ensuring transparency in resource utilization.
