The Nigerian government has approved contracts worth ₦10.3 billion to enhance access to essential healthcare services and medical commodities in Nigeria.
Briefing State House Correspondents on Wednesday, the Minister of Health and Coordinating Minister of Social Welfare, Professor Ali Pate, disclosed that the approval includes the procurement of third-line antiretroviral drugs, locally manufactured diabetes diagnostic kits, essential medical supplies, and advanced diagnostic equipment for Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital in Bauchi.
The Minister added that more plans are underway to bring further relief to Nigerians, among other retinue of interventions to ensure that the wellbeing of citizens are protected and enhanced within the limit of available resources.
Among the approved contracts is the sum of ₦997 million allocated for third-line antiretroviral drugs to support Nigerians living with HIV, particularly those resistant to first and second-line treatments.
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Prof. Pate highlighted the importance of the intervention in ensuring continued access to life-saving treatment in the midst of evolving global health financing models that prioritise domestic funding.
Furthermore, the council approved ₦2 billion for the procurement of locally manufactured diagnostic kits for diabetes.
Prof. Pate said diabetes is a rapidly growing health concern in Nigeria, with many undiagnosed cases.
“The government is procuring blood glucose monitoring devices produced by a Lagos-based company, one of the first in Africa to manufacture such kits locally.
“These devices will be distributed to primary healthcare centers nationwide, with health workers trained to assist patients in managing the condition.”
To further reduce healthcare costs, FEC approved ₦4.5 billion for the procurement of essential medications, including antibiotics, antihypertensives, and anti-diabetic drugs.
According to the Minister, “these medicines, sourced from local manufacturers, will be distributed to improve affordability and availability across the country.
“We are beginning to pull demand and patronize our local manufacturers, ensuring that Nigerians can access quality healthcare at lower costs.”
During yesterday’s Federal Executive Council, approval was given to a memo seeking funding for initiatives under the Health Sector totaling $1.070bn.
Another N20 billion was approved for customs as they ramp up efforts towards ensuring the sustainability of the CNG Initiative. pic.twitter.com/AvXYa5BiFY
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As part of efforts to improve diagnostic services, FEC also approved ₦2.1 billion for the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital in Bauchi.
Prof. Pate disclosed that the funds will be used to procure a mobile X-ray machine and rehabilitate a 64-slice computerized tomography (CT) scan, thereby enhancing diagnostic capabilities at the hospital.
“The upgraded equipment will ensure that Nigerians receive high-quality clinical care, not just in Bauchi but across the region,” the minister noted.
Prof. Pate reaffirmed government’s commitment to healthcare transformation, stating that the approvals align with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of improving healthcare accessibility, affordability, and quality for all Nigerians.
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