Reps Urges FG To Review 2025 Budget Over US Health Policy Changes

The House of Representatives has called on the federal government to review the 2025 Appropriation Bill to address funding gaps created by the new US Global Health Policy in funding essential programs

Lawmakers adopted a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by a member from Adamawa State, Bitrus Laori urging the government to explore alternative funding sources and collaborations with international partners, such as the World Health Organization and the European Union.

The House also mandated the Ministry of Health to increase public awareness about the threats to the health sector and the need for efficient resource utilization.

Additionally, the Committee on Appropriation was asked to review the 2025 budget for the health sector.

Laori emphasized the importance of healthcare to national security and development, citing the significant impact of the US policy change on Nigeria’s health sector.

“The US had invested over $600 million in health assistance in Nigeria in 2023, supporting programs such as PEPFAR, which provides funding for HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment.

“The funding cuts threaten to disrupt essential health services, including malaria prevention, tuberculosis control, and maternal and child health programs.

“An estimated 1.9 million Nigerians living with HIV/AIDS rely on free antiretroviral therapy provided by the US and other initiatives.. he said

Oduyemi Odumade, Edited by Shakirah Alabi