FG releases N32.9bn to strengthen primary healthcare

The federal government has released the sum of N32.9 billion to boost healthcare delivery at the grassroots under the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF).

Ali Pate, coordinating minister of health and social welfare, announced the release in a “Red Letter” statement on Wednesday, noting that it marks the third disbursement of the fund in 2025.

Established under section 11 of the National Health Act (NHAct) 2014, the BHCPF aims to support the Basic Minimum Package of Health Services (BMPHS) and improve overall health sector financing.

It is financed by an annual grant of not less than one percent of the consolidated revenue fund (CRF) from the federal government, grants by international donor partners, private sector or other sources.

The fund is jointly managed by the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), the federal ministry of health, and the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA).

Pate urged Nigerians to track the utilisation of the funds to ensure transparency and impact at the community level.

He said the government has observed that communities do not demand accountability on how the money is used, adding that silence leads to loss.

“This money is not sitting in Abuja. It has already begun its journey into the commercial bank accounts of primary health care facilities in every ward across Nigeria,” Pate said.

“It is your clinic’s money. It is your community’s chance. It is your country’s promise. Every facility now holds the power to plan and spend, not alone, but together with the community it serves.”

The minister encouraged traditional leaders, ward health committees, women and youth groups, and faith-based organisations to participate in monitoring how the funds are used to strengthen local facilities.

Describing the BHCPF as “the heartbeat of Nigeria’s renewed hope in health,” Pate said the release demonstrates the federal government’s commitment to accountability and shared responsibility.

“This Red Letter is a call from the Federal Government to your conscience: stand up and take ownership. Go to your health facility. Join the committee. Review the plan. Demand openness. Celebrate progress. And above all, ensure the fund truly protects the health of your people,” he added.

“Each naira in this N32.9 billion is a seed. When you nurture it with vigilance and pride, it grows into medicine, safe births, better infrastructure, and lives saved. When you neglect it, it withers into waste.”