FG’s Healthcare Initiative Secures $1 Billion for Local Production

• Vice President Kashim Shettima announces a collaboration that has mobilized over $1 billion to strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system and local production
• The initiative aims to improve healthcare accessibility, with over 1,000 primary healthcare centers receiving funding for enhanced emergency obstetric care services

Vice President Kashim Shettima has announced a groundbreaking collaboration between the federal government, state governors, and development partners.

This partnership, formed under the Sector-Wide Compact, has successfully mobilized over $1 billion to strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system.

This effort is part of the Presidential Initiative to Unlock the Healthcare Value Chain, which aims to boost local production of pharmaceuticals and medical supplies.

It also seeks to reduce the country’s dependence on imports while creating jobs in the healthcare sector.

Speaking at the third National Health Summit of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in Abuja, Shettima highlighted the initiative’s achievements.

Represented by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, he detailed how over 1,000 primary healthcare centers have received direct funding through the revitalized Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF 2.0).

The funding has significantly expanded emergency obstetric care services, including free cesarean sections and fistula repair surgeries at 30 prequalified hospitals. These measures aim to improve healthcare accessibility and outcomes for Nigerians.

However, Shettima emphasized that implementing effective policies remains a major challenge. While strategies exist, translating them into tangible results requires consistent effort and commitment.

NMA President, Prof. Bala Audu, also underscored the importance of a unified approach to developing Nigeria’s medical and pharmaceutical industries.

He urged stakeholders to collaborate and ensure the country produces at least 70% of its healthcare needs, including medications and equipment.

The initiative demonstrates a focused effort to revitalize Nigeria’s healthcare system, fostering innovation and self-reliance in the sector.