FG to Assume Salaries for 28,000 Health Workers Affected by USAID Freeze – Minister Pate

The Federal Government of Nigeria is stepping in to manage the financial impact of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) freeze on its health programs, which had been supporting the salaries of 28,000 Nigerian health workers. This freeze, resulting from changes in US policy under the Donald Trump administration, has raised concerns about the future of critical health interventions in the country, particularly in the fight against diseases such as HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria.

In an interview on Channels Television’s Hard Copy program, Professor Ali Pate, Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, discussed Nigeria’s strategy to address the challenges posed by the reduction in foreign aid. He acknowledged the significant role USAID had played in supporting health workers and healthcare programs in Nigeria but emphasized that the country must take responsibility for its health system’s future.

Investment in Health System and Domestic Resources Professor Pate highlighted that the primary challenge facing Nigeria’s health sector has been the lack of consistent investment in infrastructure, human resources, and equipment. Historically, public financing for health has been limited, and while Nigeria has received substantial foreign aid, including from the USA, this funding has not always been channeled through government systems, which adds to the vulnerability of the sector.

He noted that, despite challenges, the Nigerian government is increasingly prioritizing healthcare. Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, there has been a deliberate push to allocate more resources to health, including funding for primary healthcare, cancer treatment, and medical training. The government is also working towards reducing its dependence on external assistance, particularly as the US policy shifts.

“The Federal Executive Council recently approved nearly a billion dollars for the healthcare program,” Pate stated, emphasizing the ongoing commitment to improve Nigeria’s health sector. He also acknowledged that Nigeria’s health expenditure is significantly lower than that of developed countries, like the UK and US, where more than $4,000 per capita is spent on healthcare, compared to Nigeria’s $120 per capita.

Transitioning Health Workers to Domestic Support A significant issue arising from the freeze is the fate of the 28,000 health workers supported by USAID. These workers, who play key roles in the delivery of HIV, TB, and malaria interventions, are now at risk of losing their salaries. Pate reassured the public that the Nigerian government will assume responsibility for their salaries, ensuring continuity in essential health services.

“We are not complaining; we are full of appreciation for the US government’s contributions. But we are now focused on taking responsibility for the health of our population,” Pate said. The Nigerian government has already conducted a detailed assessment to determine the resources needed to sustain programs in HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria without relying on USAID funding.

Strengthening Nigeria’s Health System Nigeria’s health sector has long struggled with underinvestment in infrastructure and reliance on imported medical supplies. However, the government is making efforts to shift this paradigm by increasing local production of medical commodities, improving the supply chain, and focusing on health system resilience, including surveillance and laboratory systems for infectious diseases.

To manage the transition, the government is also seeking to increase domestic resources for health, including contributions from states, the private sector, and pharmaceutical companies. “Our approach has been about increasing national ownership and improving healthcare delivery in a sustainable way,” Pate said.

Addressing Power Issues in Hospitals In addition to financial challenges, Nigeria’s health facilities have struggled with power supply issues. For instance, the University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan had been operating without reliable electricity, leading to significant operational difficulties. However, the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of UCH has made strides by transitioning to off-grid solar power for many wards and operating theatres, ensuring the hospital continues to function despite power shortages.

The government has committed to addressing these issues through the Rural Electrification Agency, aiming to solarize hospitals across the country in the 2025 budget. This initiative is part of broader efforts to reduce the reliance on diesel generators, which are a significant drain on hospital resources.

Looking Forward: Sustainability in Health Financing The overarching theme in Professor Pate’s remarks was Nigeria’s resolve to move toward a more sustainable and self-reliant health system. While acknowledging the contributions of international partners like the US, Pate reiterated that Nigeria must take ownership of its health challenges. The goal is to ensure the long-term sustainability of health programs, even as external funding decreases.

“While we may not be able to afford the most expensive treatments, we are determined to invest in the health of our people. We will find sustainable, cost-effective solutions to safeguard the progress we’ve made in combating HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis,” he concluded.