By Ahmed Saka
The North East Health Awareness Forum (NEHCAF) has expressed serious concern and called for a thorough investigation into the alleged discrepancy in capital releases to the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare in the 2025 budget.
According to the Forum, while N218 billion was appropriated for capital projects in the health sector, only N36 million was reportedly released to the Ministry.
In a statement made available to reporters in Bauchi, the Chairman of the Forum, Abdullahi Ahmad, and the Secretary, Ummu Kulsum Rabiu, said: “Our attention has been drawn to wide publications in various national dailies quoting the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, who alleged that out of the N218 billion appropriated for capital projects in the health sector, only N36 million has been released to the Ministry. We express profound shock and astonishment at this revelation.
“It is alarming to learn that only N36 million has been received by the Ministry out of the staggering N218 billion earmarked for this critical sector,” the statement added.
The Forum noted that the disclosure raises serious concerns about transparency and effective management of healthcare resources in Nigeria.
“The health sector is pivotal to the well-being of our citizens, and such discrepancies in funding allocation cast a shadow over our collective commitment to providing quality healthcare services. We are particularly troubled by the implications this may have for ongoing and future health projects vital to improving health outcomes nationwide,” the group stated.
NEHCAF stressed that the Minister’s statement underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive investigation into the funding process to ensure that allocated resources are utilised efficiently and transparently.
“We call for immediate action from the relevant authorities to address these funding issues and to uphold accountability in the management of public health finances,” the statement said.
The Forum further emphasised that under a democratic dispensation, citizens deserve a health system that is adequately funded and well-equipped to meet their needs.
“We remain committed to advocating necessary reforms to ensure that financial resources are not only allocated but effectively utilised for the benefit of all Nigerians.”
The group also urged stakeholders, including government officials, civil society organisations, and the media, to collaborate in addressing the concerns and work towards a more accountable and responsive health financing system.
“Together, we can ensure that the promise of quality healthcare is fulfilled for every Nigerian,” the statement concluded.
.jpg)
0 Comments