The Federal Government has proposed ₦42.18 billion in the 2026 budget to provide basic healthcare services for approximately 10 million vulnerable Nigerians. This forms part of the broader ₦2.48 trillion allocation to the health sector in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s proposed budget.

The funding is intended for the procurement of essential drugs, consumables, medical equipment, laboratory reagents, and test kits to improve access to healthcare for the most vulnerable populations.

In the 2026 budget, the health sector ranks fourth among government spending priorities, with the total federal budget set at ₦58.47 trillion, meaning health receives roughly 4.2% of total allocations. Defence, infrastructure, and education received higher allocations.

President Tinubu emphasized the importance of health and education for human capital development, noting that international partners, including the United States, are contributing over US$500 million in grants for health interventions in Nigeria.

However, health experts have cautioned that adequate budgetary allocation alone is insufficient, highlighting the need for timely release and effective management of funds to ensure that intended beneficiaries actually receive the services.