FEC approves $1b for human capital development

Nigeria yesterday unveiled major strategies in domestic health sector investments amid a shift in the United States (U.S.) development assistance policy.

The strategies approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) at its meeting in Abuja include a $1 billion initiative to strengthen human capital development and N4.8 billion for the Presidential Treatment Programme for HIV patients.

Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, who briefed reporters at the State House, Abuja, said a standing committee has been raised.

Pate named representatives of the ministries of Finance, Health, Environment, Defense and the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) as members of the committee saddled with developing a sustainability plan.

The proactive steps taken by the Council to safeguard the health sector came after the U.S. government granted an emergency humanitarian waiver, pulling the brakes on previous funding of HIV treatment in developing countries.

Nigeria has relied heavily on international assistance for HIV initiatives, particularly from the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).

According to the minister, the FEC approved significant investments to ensure continued access to critical healthcare services, particularly for those affected by HIV, tuberculosis (TB) and malaria.

He said the N4.8 billion approved for the Presidential Treatment Programme for HIV patients will provide 150,000 treatment packs over the next four months, ensuring uninterrupted care for those living with HIV.

“This allocation is critical for ensuring that those living with HIV continue to receive necessary treatments without interruption,” he said.

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