By Usman Walin Gungura, Bauchi
The North East Health Awareness Forum (NEHCAF) has condemed the release of only ₦36 million out of ₦218 billion capital funds allocated to Nigeria’s federal health sector.
Chairman of the forum, Abdullahi Ahmad and Secretary, Ummu Kulsum Rabiu, in a signed statement questioned the transparency of the funding process, saying the discrepancy raises concerns about healthcare resource management.
The Forum therefore called for an immediate investigation into the matter, urging authorities concerned to ensure allocated resources are utilized efficiently and transparently for the benefit of Nigerians.
“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,” it continued.
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 deserve adequate-funding 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.
The signatories to the press statement urged all stakeholders, government officials, civil societies and the media to collaborate in addressing the unfortunate situation in the interest of the people.
