The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved N10.3 billion for the procurement of essential medical supplies, including antiretroviral drugs for HIV patients, diabetes management kits, and other healthcare equipment. Naija247news gathered that the approval was granted during the weekly FEC meeting presided over by President Bola Tinubu in Abuja on Wednesday.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!According to Naija247news, the Minister of Health, Dr. Muhammad Pate, announced the decision, stating that the funds will be used to address critical gaps in Nigeria’s healthcare system. The procurement includes antiretroviral drugs for 50,000 HIV patients, glucose monitoring devices for diabetes management, and other medical supplies for primary healthcare centers across the country.
Naija247news understands that the approval comes amid growing concerns over the rising prevalence of HIV and diabetes in Nigeria. The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) estimates that over 1.8 million Nigerians are living with HIV, while diabetes affects approximately 6 million people, according to the International Diabetes Federation.
According to Naija247news, Dr. Pate emphasized that the procurement is part of the government’s commitment to achieving universal health coverage and improving the quality of life for Nigerians. “This intervention will ensure that patients have access to life-saving medications and devices, reducing the burden of these diseases on individuals and the healthcare system,” he said.
Naija247news reports that the FEC also approved the construction and equipping of new primary healthcare centers in underserved communities. This initiative aims to bridge the gap in healthcare access, particularly in rural areas where medical facilities are often inadequate or nonexistent.
According to Naija247news, stakeholders in the health sector have welcomed the FEC’s decision, describing it as a timely intervention. The Executive Director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr. Muyi Aina, noted that the procurement will significantly enhance the capacity of healthcare workers to deliver quality services.
Naija247news gathered that the government plans to work with international partners and local manufacturers to ensure the timely delivery of the medical supplies. The Minister of Health also assured Nigerians of transparency in the procurement process, stating that all contracts will be awarded through competitive bidding.
As the government moves to implement the approved projects, Naija247news will continue to monitor the distribution and impact of the medical supplies. The FEC’s decision underscores the administration’s focus on addressing critical health challenges and improving healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
