CSJ Seeks More Funding For Health Sector

The Federal Government has been called upon to properly channel accruing revenue from increased taxes on Cigarettes, Tobacco, Alcoholic beverages and Sugar to the Health sector.

The Executive Director, Centre for Social Justice, Mr. Eze Onyekpere made the call at a workshop on Innovative and Alternative Funding of the Health Sector in Abuja.

Mr. Oyekpere who said these taxes were justifiable due to the health dangers of over consumption of the products stressed that it was pertinent that the accruing revenue be expended on the health sector, especially the Vulnerable Group Fund used in paying the premiums of the poorest of the poor and the vulnerable.

He added that for Nigeria to improve in health care funding there was need for the establishment of a Health development bank to cater for capital projects in the sector which he said would reduce medical tourism.

The workshop was part of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) funded “Strengthening Civic Advocacy and Local Engagement” program, implemented by CSJ. The project aims to enhance respect for existing laws and policies while promoting transparency and accountability in public health sector expenditure.

In the face of these challenges, the health sector was urged to make demands to ensure resources keep pace with inflation and to take advantage of new funding opportunities.

According to Onyekpere, “implementing the National Health Insurance Authority Act is vital for reducing high out-of-pocket health expenses in Nigeria. Universal Health Coverage is the goal, and NHIA will play a key role.” “The Basic Health Care Provision Fund needs better utilization and transparency. We must dedicate more funds for service delivery to benefit the poorest of the poor,” he added.

Also speaking at the occasion, Mrs Bolanle Ernest-Egbe stressed the need for regular sensitization, especially the enrollees of the National Health Insurance Scheme to always demand for their rights for the nation to achieve its yearning on Universal Health Coverage.

The outcome of this workshop is expected to inform policy decisions and pave the way for a more robust and sustainable healthcare system in Nigeria.

Florence Adewale, Edited By Grace Namiji