Nigeria’s Health Sector Records Major Gains Amid Economic Reforms — Uzoka-Anite
Barbara Bako, Abuja
Nigeria’s health sector is witnessing notable progress as the Federal Government’s ongoing macroeconomic reforms continue to deliver positive outcomes, Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, has said.
Speaking at the Health Works Leaders Coalition Roundtable on the sidelines of the 2025 World Bank Group/International Monetary Fund (WBG/IMF) Annual Meetings in Washington D.C., Dr. Uzoka-Anite said the government’s reform agenda is strengthening healthcare delivery through increased funding and targeted fiscal initiatives.
She disclosed that the Federal Government has raised the budgetary allocation to the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare by nearly 60 percent in the 2025 Appropriation Act, a move she described as a demonstration of the Tinubu administration’s commitment to improving healthcare access nationwide.
While acknowledging that the sector still faces a funding gap, the Minister explained that new fiscal measures are being deployed to enhance financing and deepen value creation in the health system.
These include the design, administration and periodic review of excise taxes on tobacco, alcohol and sugar-sweetened beverages, with revenues earmarked for Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
Dr. Uzoka-Anite added that the government has also implemented a policy zero-rating medical equipment and drugs for Value Added Tax (VAT) purposes and secured concessionary financing through the HOPE operation to support healthcare investments.
She further emphasized the need for a national compact to serve as a coordinating framework for aligning fiscal resources toward national priorities, particularly in the health sector.
The Minister expressed appreciation to the World Bank for recognizing Nigeria as a priority country for showcasing its UHC Compact and for selecting the country to lead efforts under the Africa Initiative for Access to Medicines and Local Manufacturing (AIM 2030).
Dr. Uzoka-Anite reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to advancing reforms that foster inclusive growth and improved livelihoods.
“This achievement is a testament to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes improving the nation’s health and well-being,” she said.
She also commended the Minister of Health, Professor Ali Pate, and other stakeholders for their collaborative efforts in driving progress across the health sector.
Uzoka-Anite expressed optimism about Nigeria’s economic prospects and called for stronger partnerships to sustain the momentum of growth, productivity, and equitable development.
