News Investigators/ The Minister of State for Finance, Doris Uzoka-Anite, says Nigeria’s health sector is witnessing remarkable progress as the Federal Government’s macroeconomic reforms continue to yield tangible results.
Mrs Uzoka-Anite made said this at the Health Works Leaders Coalition roundtable, on the sidelines of the 2025 World Bank Group/International Monetary Fund Annual Meetings in Washington D.C., on Thursday.
She said that the strategic policy actions had led to stronger financing and better service delivery across the health sector.
Mrs Uzoka-Anite said that the Federal Government had boosted funding for the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare by nearly 60 per cent in the 2025 budget, demonstrating a renewed commitment to improving healthcare access and outcomes.
She said that government reforms had also expanded the fiscal space through the introduction and periodic review of excise taxes on tobacco, alcohol and sugar-sweetened beverages, with proceeds channeled toward achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
“In addition, medical equipment and drugs have been zero-rated for Value Added Tax (VAT) purposes,
“Concessionary financing worth several millions of dollars have also been secured under the HOPE operation to strengthen healthcare infrastructure,” the minister said.
She called for a national compact to coordinate and align fiscal resources with national priorities, particularly within the health sector.
Mrs Uzoka-Anite commended the World Bank for recognising the country as a priority for showcasing its UHC compact and for selecting the nation to lead the Africa initiative for access to Medicines and Local Manufacturing (AIM 2030).
She also commended the Minister of Health, Prof. Ali Pate, and other stakeholders for their collaboration in advancing reforms that are transforming the country’s health landscape.
“This progress is a testament to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises improving the nation’s health and well-being,” she said.
The minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to deepening reforms, promoting sustainable economic growth, and ensuring that improved healthcare delivery remains central to the country’s development agenda.
She called for continued partnerships to drive inclusive growth, productivity and equitable development.
NAN