FG approves N10b for health commodities

The Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has received approval from the Federal Executive Council (FEC) to allocate over 10 billion Naira for the procurement of various products aimed at improving the accessibility and affordability of health commodities and services.

The Minister, Professor Ali Pate, shared this information in Abuja while addressing State House correspondents following Wednesday’s March 5, 2025, FEC meeting.

He explained that the first category includes the procurement of third-line antiretroviral drugs. Recently, the first- and second-line antiretroviral drugs were approved, along with additional resources—nearly 997 million Naira—to procure the third-line drugs for individuals living with HIV.

The second category involves the procurement of locally manufactured diagnostic kits for diabetes, which is becoming a significant concern in the country.

“Diabetes is one of the fastest-growing health issues, and many people are unaware that they have it. For the first time, a local company will manufacture these diagnostic test kits in Nigeria,” the Minister noted.

Among the products being acquired are glucose monitoring devices to be distributed nationwide, enabling diabetics to track their sugar levels.

“Health workers will receive training at primary health care centers and other facilities. We believe these products will provide relief to many poor and vulnerable Nigerians who cannot afford them. This procurement was also approved by the Federal Executive Council,” Professor Pate added.

He mentioned that President Tinubu previously indicated the need for a medical relief program to reduce costs for various medical commodities, including antibiotics, antihypertensives, and anti-diabetic medications, beyond just the test kits.

“These additional items are valued at 4.5 billion Naira and will be procured and distributed to help lower costs. Many of these products will be manufactured by local companies, which supports our local industries,” the Minister stated.

Professor Pate also highlighted the second approval, which is for a mobile X-ray machine for the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital in Bauchi.

Included in this package is the rehabilitation and equipping of a computerized tomography (CT) scan, specifically a 64-slice CT scan, totaling 2.1 billion Naira.

“This will ensure that the diagnostic services and clinical care provided at this hospital are of the highest quality. It will serve not only the state but also the surrounding region.”