The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, has announced that Nigeria will absorb 28,000 health workers previously funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). This decision follows changes in US foreign aid policy under President Donald Trump, which led to the suspension of HIV treatment funding through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).
Prof. Pate emphasized the Nigerian government’s commitment to taking ownership of the healthcare sector, particularly in light of the suspension of PEPFAR funds, which have been critical in supporting millions of Nigerians living with HIV. He called for increased national investment in healthcare, highlighting that over 70% of medications and more than 99% of medical devices in the country are imported.
The Health Minister stressed that quality healthcare requires substantial investment and reiterated the nation’s determination to reduce reliance on foreign aid. He assured that the government is working to transition the affected health workers to its oversight, ensuring continuity in healthcare services.
This move underscores Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen its healthcare system and address the challenges posed by the withdrawal of international funding.
