By Adenike Lawal
Following the U.S. government’s withdrawal of healthcare funding, Nigeria’s Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Mohammed Ali Pate, has assured that the federal government is actively working to address the resulting gaps.
Speaking during an interactive session with the House Committee on AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria on Thursday, Pate acknowledged the impact of the decision but emphasized that pre-existing government policies and interventions have helped cushion the blow.
He described the funding cut as an opportunity for Nigeria to strengthen its healthcare system, reduce dependency on foreign aid, and foster homegrown solutions.
“While we appreciate past U.S. support, Nigeria must take ownership of its healthcare sector by increasing domestic funding,” Pate stated, noting that external donors have long financed HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria programs in the country.
He revealed that a comprehensive analysis involving NACA and other health agencies has been conducted to identify funding gaps and develop alternative financing strategies.
Chairman of the House Committee on AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, Rep. Amobi Godwin Ogah, commended the government’s swift response, urging a shift toward sustainable domestic healthcare financing.
He called for the creation of a Healthcare Sector Trust Fund to provide stable funding, similar to TETFUND in education.
Prof. Pate also highlighted the role of lawmakers in raising awareness about disease prevention and healthcare access.
He praised First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s advocacy for tuberculosis awareness and urged broader collaboration to improve public health.
“Ensuring a healthy population is not just about healthcare—it is key to national prosperity,” Pate affirmed, underscoring the Tinubu administration’s commitment to a self-sustaining healthcare system.
