Nigeria’s Health Sector Requires Committed Domestic Funding.

Nigeria:  Nigeria’s health sector has long relied on international donor organizations, but the need for committed domestic health funding has become increasingly pressing.

Despite a gradual decline in donor dependency since 2020, Nigeria still receives significant support from international donors for various health programs, including malaria eradication, polio, and health insurance expansion.

The country’s health sector faces significant challenges, including a substantial funding gap. Approximately 24% of available funding for tuberculosis control comes from international donors, while domestic funding accounts for only about 6%. The National Health Act of 2014 established the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) to provide sustainable financing for primary healthcare, but more needs to be done.

Challenges of Donor Dependency

Over-reliance on international donors poses a significant threat to Nigeria’s health sector, particularly when aid is suspended. The recent US presidential declaration cutting funding for international health interventions has sparked concerns about the sustainability of health programs in Nigeria. To address this challenge, the federal and subnational governments must commit to increasing domestic health funding, ensuring proper utilization of available funds, and exploring alternative funding sources, such as public-private partnerships and health insurance expansion.

Achieving Sustainable Health Interventions

To achieve sustainable domestic health funding, Nigeria must prioritize health in its national budget, allocating at least 15% of its budget to health, as recommended by the Abuja Declaration. The government should also strengthen the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) to cover more Nigerians and encourage private sector investment in healthcare. Proper fund management, anti-corruption measures, and independent audits are essential to ensure efficient use of health funds.

By Taiwo olatinwo/ march 16, 2025