The Federal Government has assured Nigerians that the country can fund its healthcare system despite the exit of the United States Agency for International Development.
USAID’s closure was ordered by former United States President Donald Trump, leaving many countries, especially in Africa, uncertain about the future of aid programs.
However, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Ali Pate, has said Nigeria is not worried about the decision.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Hard Copy on Friday, Pate expressed gratitude for USAID’s past contributions but emphasized that Nigeria is capable of handling its own healthcare system.
“So for us, we are not complaining. We are full of appreciation to the U.S. government for the contribution they have made,” he said.
He acknowledged that American assistance had supported over 1.3 million Nigerians with antiretroviral therapies, tuberculosis, malaria treatment, and maternal and child healthcare.
“But we have the responsibility on us as leaders to ensure that our population gets the care they need. The federal government is going to do its part,” he added.
Pate explained that even before the U.S. policy change, Nigeria had been working towards self-sufficiency in healthcare funding.
“We may be a poor country, but we are a capable country, and we are determined to own up to that responsibility,” he said.
He stressed that while external support is appreciated, Nigeria does not depend on aid and will continue to strengthen its healthcare system.
“Our approach long before the change in U.S. policy has been towards increasing national ownership, increasing domestic resources, improving our healthcare value chain, and producing what we use,” he stated.
The minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving healthcare services and ensuring Nigerians receive the care they need.
