The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, has revealed that the Federal Government plans to distribute N50 billion to Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCs) in the first quarter of 2024.
This announcement was made during the fifth Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) and Ministerial Oversight Committee meeting in Abuja.
Prof. Pate emphasized that the funds, which have already been accumulated in the BHCPF, will be directed to state PHC facilities to offer crucial services to women and children.
Dr. Oyebanji Filani, Chairman of the Forum of Health Commissioners in Nigeria, expressed confidence in the discussions that took place during the meeting. The main objective is to establish a clear path towards achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) using the BHCPF. Important issues were addressed, which will help improve accountability and transparency in the distribution and monitoring of funds.
Dr. Walter Mulombo, the Country Representative of the WHO, praised the discussions that took place during the meeting, particularly in relation to the recently introduced Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative. According to him, these discussions have set the stage for progress, speeding up the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) in the health sector.
The BHCPF, which was created according to Section 11 of the National Health Act, is responsible for financing a Basic Minimum Package of Health Services (BMPHS) and expanding the financial resources available for healthcare. Its main objective is to enhance the availability of primary healthcare, reinforce the national health system, and guarantee that the operational expenses of Primary Health Centers (PHCs) are taken care of. Ultimately, this will lead to improved healthcare access for everyone.
