The federal government plans to hire 28,000 health workers whose salaries were previously funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
This was revealed by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Pate, during an interview on Channels Television.
Pate explained that the government is working to integrate these health workers into the national healthcare system and reduce reliance on foreign aid.
While acknowledging the significant support from the US government, particularly in the areas of HIV, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, Pate emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to taking greater responsibility for its healthcare sector and minimizing its dependence on external assistance. He noted, “Quality healthcare is not cheap. As a country, we have not invested enough in it yet, but we are now making deliberate efforts to improve investments in key areas.”
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Pate also highlighted that over 70% of Nigeria’s drugs are imported using foreign exchange, a situation the country cannot sustain.
He affirmed Nigeria’s capacity and determination to manage its healthcare system independently, although external support is appreciated.
The 28,000 health workers currently funded by the US government will be transitioned into the system, as Nigeria moves towards increasing national ownership of healthcare services.
This shift comes after US President Donald Trump issued an executive order halting funding for HIV treatment in developing countries, affecting USAID and the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).
Despite this, the US government approved a waiver allowing ongoing treatment for people living with HIV.
In response, the Nigerian government allocated N4.5 billion to procure HIV treatment supplies to support those living with HIV/AIDS in the country.
