The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Ali Pate, has announced that the Nigerian government will take over the responsibility of 28,000 health workers who were previously under the payroll of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
In an interview on Channels Television, Pate explained that the government is prepared to take full ownership of the country’s healthcare sector following a shift in US policy. This move follows an executive order by US President Donald Trump, which halted funding for HIV treatment in developing countries as part of a broader pause on foreign aid. The executive orders also impacted USAID and other foreign interventions, leading to the suspension of funds from the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which supports over 20 million people globally, including more than half a million children in Nigeria.
However, the United Nations’ joint programme on HIV/AIDS clarified that a waiver was granted, allowing continued access to HIV treatment. Additionally, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved N4.5 billion to procure HIV treatment packs for Nigerians living with HIV/AIDS.
Pate highlighted that Nigeria has historically underinvested in healthcare, with over 70% of medications and more than 99% of medical devices imported. He emphasized that only 30% of healthcare expenditure comes from the government, with the remaining 70% funded by private individuals. While acknowledging the role of external donors, he stressed the need for Nigeria to reduce dependence on foreign aid and take ownership of its healthcare sector.
“We are a capable country and we are determined to own up to that responsibility,” Pate said, reiterating that Nigeria must fill the gaps left by the suspension of US aid. He also emphasized that while external support is appreciated, the country must invest more in its healthcare system for long-term sustainability.
