The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved ₦10.3 billion for procuring antiretroviral drugs, diabetes diagnostic kits, and other essential health supplies, aiming to boost accessibility and affordability nationwide.
Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Ali Pate, announced the approvals in a statement on Thursday, emphasising the government’s commitment to domestic health financing.
“A few weeks ago, we approved the first-line antiretroviral drugs. Now, we are allocating nearly ₦997 million for third-line antiretroviral treatment to ensure HIV-infected Nigerians continue receiving the care they need,” Pate said.
The initiative also priorities diabetes management, with the government securing locally manufactured blood glucose monitoring kits.
“Diabetes is one of the fastest-growing health challenges in our country. Many Nigerians suffer from it without knowing,” Pate noted. “Now, a Lagos-based company is producing test kits, and the government is stepping in to make them widely available.”
Beyond diagnostic tools, FEC has allocated ₦4.5 billion for antibiotics, antihypertensive, and antidiabetic medications to ease medical costs.
“We are not just providing test kits; we are ensuring patients have access to life-saving drugs,” Pate added.
In a further push to modernise healthcare, the council approved ₦2.1 billion for a mobile X-ray machine and the rehabilitation of a 64-slice CT scan at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital in Bauchi.
“This upgrade will transform the hospital into a referral centre, benefiting Bauchi and neighbouring states,” Pate explained.
