The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved a N4.8 billion funding package to sustain HIV treatment programs across Nigeria.
Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare Muhammad Ali Pate made the announcement on Monday, following an FEC meeting presided over by President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
The approved funds will cover the procurement of 150,000 treatment packs for HIV patients over the next four months. This move, according to Pate, reflects the government’s commitment to safeguarding the health of vulnerable populations, despite the challenges posed by shifting international support.
“The Presidential Treatment Programme for HIV patients has been approved, with a total of N4.8 billion allocated for the procurement of 150,000 treatment packs over four months.
“This is an important signal that the federal government is committed to ensuring that life-saving treatments remain accessible, despite the changing dynamics in external support,” Pate stated.
The minister acknowledged the contributions made by the U.S. over the past two decades but stressed that Nigeria is preparing to reduce its reliance on foreign aid.
“While we greatly appreciate the contributions of the U.S. government over the last 20 years and look forward to continued collaboration, Nigeria under President Bola Tinubu is focused on transforming the health sector through national systems and domestic financing.
“Our goal is to ensure that no patient currently receiving treatment is left without care,” he said.
Mr Pate also announced the establishment of a committee tasked with developing a transition and sustainability plan for the continuity of critical health programs. The committee will include representatives from various ministries and the Nigeria Governors’ Forum.
