In a major move to enhance healthcare accessibility and affordability, the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has secured Federal Executive Council approval to allocate over 10 billion Naira for procuring essential health commodities and equipment. Speaking in Abuja, Minister Professor Ali Pate outlined the ambitious procurement plan during a briefing with State House correspondents following today’s FEC meeting.
Professor Pate explained that nearly 997 million Naira will be dedicated to acquiring third line antiretroviral drugs for HIV patients—a crucial step in ensuring that Nigerians receive quality and affordable treatment, in line with President Tinubu’s vision. “This initiative is part of our ongoing commitment to make top-tier health services accessible to all Nigerians,” he stated.
The ministry’s procurement package also includes locally manufactured diagnostic kits for diabetes, a growing concern in the country. “Many Nigerians suffer from diabetes without even knowing it, and by supporting local production of these diagnostic kits, we are not only addressing a public health challenge but also boosting our domestic manufacturing capabilities,” the Minister noted. Additional investments will fund the nationwide distribution of glucose monitoring devices and the training of health workers at primary care centers to better manage diabetes care.
Moreover, an allocation of 4.5 billion Naira will support the procurement and distribution of other vital medical commodities—such as antibiotics, anti-hypertensives, and anti-diabetic medications—further reducing treatment costs for the nation’s most vulnerable populations. In a separate development, the ministry has approved the purchase of a mobile X-ray machine for the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital in Bauchi, along with the rehabilitation and equipping of a 64-slice CT scan, valued at 2.1 billion Naira. “This investment will enhance diagnostic services, making the hospital a key referral center not only for Bauchi State but also for the surrounding region,” Professor Pate added.
This comprehensive procurement initiative is set to transform the Nigerian healthcare landscape by improving service quality, promoting local manufacturing, and ensuring that life-saving treatments are within reach for all citizens.
