North East Forum Raises the Alarm Over N218bn Health Funding Gap, Urges Probe

Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi

North East Health Awareness Forum (NEHCAF) has expressed concern over the release of only N36 million out of N218 billion capital funds allocated to Nigeria’s federal health sector.

In a statement, Chairman of NEHCAF, Abdullahi Ahmad, and Secretary, Ummu kulsum Rabiu, questioned the transparency of the funding process, saying the discrepancy raises concerns about healthcare resource management.

The forum called for an investigation into the matter, urging authorities to ensure allocated resources are utilised efficiently and transparently for the benefit of Nigerians.

The statement said, “Our attention has been drawn to the wide publication in various national dailies, of the statement credited to Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Mohammed Ali Pate, where he alleged that out of the N218 billion capital project appropriated funds for the health sector, only N36 million was released.”

The forum stated, “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.”

According to the forum, the minister’s statement highlights the urgent need for a thorough investigation into the funding processes to ensure that allocated resources are utilised efficiently and transparently.

It observed that under democracy, the citizens deserved an adequately-funded and well-equipped health system to meet their needs.

“We remain committed to advocating for the necessary reforms to ensure that financial resources are not only allocated but also effectively utilised for the benefit of all Nigerians,” the forum said.

It urged all stakeholders, government officials, civil society, and the media to collaborate in addressing the concerns.