By Suzan Edeh, Bauchi
The North East Health Awareness Forum (NEHCAF) has raised alarm over the inability of the Federal Ministry of Health to draw the budgeted sum of N218 billion capital expenditure for the year 2025, saying that only N36 million was released.
The disclosure was contained in a statement distributed to Journalists by the Chairman of the Forum, Abdullahi Ahmad and Secretary Ummu kulsum Rabiu.
“Our attention has been drawn to the widely spread publication in various national dailies, of the statement credited to Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Mohammed Ali Pate, alleging that out of the N218 billion capital project appropriated funds for the health sector in 2025, only N36 million was released.”
“We express our profound shock and astonishment at this revelation made by the Coordinating Minister. 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”.
“This disclosure raises serious concerns about transparency and the 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 commitment to providing quality healthcare services.”
“We are particularly troubled by the implications this may have for ongoing and future health projects that are vital for improving health outcomes nationwide.”
“The Minister’s statement highlights the urgent need for a thorough investigation into the funding processes and to ensure that allocated resources are utilised efficiently and transparently”.
“We call for immediate action from relevant authorities to address these funding issues and to uphold accountability in the management of public health finances.”
“Under a democratic dispensation, our citizens deserve a health system that is adequately funded and well-equipped 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.”
“We urge all stakeholders, including government officials, civil society, and the media, to collaborate in addressing these concerns and to 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 read in parts.
