The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced plans to increase the country’s health budget allocation to 10 per cent. Dr. Salma Anas, the Special Adviser to the President on Health, made this revelation during the ‘Gate Field 2023 Health Summit’ held in Abuja.
Dr. Anas highlighted President Bola Tinubu-led administration’s commitment to strengthening the healthcare systems and improving the health and well-being of Nigerians, with the ultimate goal of enhancing productivity across the nation.
The President’s unwavering support aims to explore innovative strategies that will guarantee and generate revenue for the healthcare sector. Dr. Anas stated, “The President said he will increase allocation for health to start from 10 per cent of the total budgetary allocation, which must go to the health sector. Based on our demonstration of capacity to utilize, an indication of accountability, the president will increase more. The president is ready to support us with additional resources, this is because of his vision to reach 50 million vulnerable Nigerians through insurance coverage.”
In line with the healthcare enhancement plan, more Primary Healthcare Centres facilities will be established, and secondary healthcare facilities will be revamped to act as a link and immediate referral for the PHCs facilities. This connectivity with tertiary institutions will provide mentorship in capacity building for optimal healthcare services.
Additionally, the summit shed light on the impact of Sugar-Sweetened Beverages (SSBs) on non-communicable diseases such as type two diabetes, cancer, and heart diseases. Dr. Adamu Umar, the President of the Nigerian Cancer Society and Co-Chair of the National Action on Sugar Reduction Coalition, noted the alarming statistics related to the consumption of SSBs. He mentioned that approximately 11.2 million Nigerians, or one in 17 adults, are living with type two diabetes. He also emphasized the need to address the health and economic burden caused by these diseases.
The summit advocates for increased taxation on SSBs to tackle these health challenges effectively. The Founder of Medicaid Foundation, Dr. Zainab Bagudu, expressed the importance of earmarking the funds generated from increased SSB taxes for the health sector, particularly for non-communicable diseases. The summit emphasized the need for effective governance mechanisms to ensure accountability in utilizing the tax revenue for healthcare improvements and reducing out-of-pocket spending for ordinary Nigerians.
The government’s focus on strengthening the healthcare sector and increasing budget allocation demonstrates its commitment to improving the health and well-being of Nigerians and achieving better healthcare outcomes for the nation.
