Health Sector Records Major Gains Under Tinubu’s Economic Reforms, Says Uzoka-Anite

Health Sector Records Major Gains Under Tinubu’s Economic Reforms, Says Uzoka-Anite

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

Nigeria’s health sector is witnessing remarkable progress as the Federal Government’s macroeconomic reforms continue to deliver tangible results, 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/IMF Annual Meetings in Washington D.C., Uzoka-Anite said strategic investments and fiscal reforms were helping to strengthen the country’s healthcare system.

According to her, despite existing challenges, the administration has made significant progress in improving access to quality healthcare.

“The health sector has seen notable improvements with increased funding and targeted initiatives aimed at enhancing healthcare delivery,” she said.

She disclosed that the Federal Government raised allocation to the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare by almost 60 per cent in the 2025 budget, reflecting President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to improving the nation’s well-being.

Uzoka-Anite also highlighted ongoing fiscal measures designed to deepen financing for health services. These include excise taxes on tobacco, alcohol, and sugar-sweetened beverages, revenues from which are being channelled to support Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

“In addition, we have implemented a policy zero-rating medical equipment and drugs for VAT purposes,” she explained.
“Through the HOPE operation, we have also secured concessionary financing in excess of previous years to expand access to healthcare.”

The Minister stressed the need for a national compact to coordinate and pool fiscal resources toward key health priorities, describing it as crucial for sustaining progress.

She commended the World Bank for recognising Nigeria as a priority country in showcasing its UHC Compact and for selecting it to lead the Africa Initiative for Access to Medicines and Local Manufacturing (AIM 2030).

Uzoka-Anite praised the Minister of Health, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, and other sectoral stakeholders for their collaboration in driving reforms. “This achievement is a testament to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises the health and well-being of Nigerians,” she added.

Reaffirming government’s commitment to inclusive growth, the Minister said Nigeria’s economic outlook remains promising. “We are confident that with sustained reforms, partnerships, and innovation, we can achieve a healthier and more prosperous nation,” she said.

The remarks reflect the Federal Government’s continued focus on aligning economic reforms with social investments to enhance the quality of life for Nigerians.