The Federal Government has announced plans to integrate 28,000 Nigerian health workers previously funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) into the national healthcare system.
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Ali Pate, revealed this over the weekend in an interview on Channels Television. He emphasized that the government is taking proactive steps to assume greater responsibility for the country’s healthcare sector amid shifts in U.S. foreign aid policies.
Impact of U.S. Aid Policy Shift
Recently, U.S. President Donald Trump ordered a temporary pause on funding for HIV treatment programs in developing countries as part of an executive order on foreign aid. This policy change has affected the operations of USAID and other U.S.-funded health interventions, including the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).
PEPFAR currently supports over 20 million people living with HIV worldwide, including 566,000 children under the age of 15 in Nigeria. However, following concerns raised by global health organizations, the U.S. government approved a waiver to ensure continued access to HIV treatment for those in need.
Nigeria’s Commitment to Healthcare Investment
In response to these changes, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) recently approved N4.5 billion for the procurement of HIV treatment packs to support Nigerians living with HIV/AIDS.
Minister Pate acknowledged that Nigeria has historically underinvested in healthcare but assured that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is committed to reversing the trend. He noted that over 70% of medications used in Nigeria are imported, alongside more than 99% of medical devices. The government is working to improve local production and reduce dependency on foreign healthcare resources.
Funding and Workforce Transition
The minister highlighted that while 30% of Nigeria’s health expenditure is government-funded, the remaining 70% comes from private individuals and donors. While acknowledging the significant role of foreign aid, he stressed the need for Nigeria to take greater ownership of its healthcare sector.
“There are 28,000 health workers currently funded through U.S. government support. While we appreciate this, these health workers are Nigerians, and we have to transition them into our system,” Pate said.
He further emphasized that Nigeria is a capable nation and should not rely indefinitely on external support: “We are determined to take full responsibility for our healthcare sector. If others step in to support us, we appreciate it, but we are not begging.”
Reducing Foreign Dependency
Pate urged federal and state governments to bridge the gaps created by reduced foreign aid and work towards self-sufficiency in healthcare funding and provision. He reiterated the administration’s efforts to increase domestic investment in healthcare infrastructure, workforce development, and pharmaceutical production.
As Nigeria moves toward greater self-reliance, the integration of these 28,000 health workers marks a significant step in strengthening the nation’s healthcare system and ensuring the continued delivery of essential medical services.
