By Muhammad Amman
The Africa Health Budget Network (AHBN) has commended Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for allocating N150 million and N50 million, under the budget line counterpart funding for National Cancer Health Fund and Childhood Cancer Health Funds in Nigeria, respectively.
The funds were allocated under the budget line ‘Counterpart Funding for National Cancer Health Fund’ with budget code ERGP25227378) and ‘Counterpart Funding for Childhood Cancer Health Funds in Nigeria’ with budget code ERGP25227404).
President Tinubu has presented the sum of N47.960 trillion as the proposed budget for 2025, during the joint sitting of the Senate and House of Representatives on Wednesday, with the health sector getting N2.48 trillion.
The AHBN in a statement signed by its Founder and Coordinator, Dr Aminu Magashi Garba congratulated the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Adekunle Salako and the Director General of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), Professor Usman Malami Aliyu, for their efforts in securing the allocations.
The statement added that it is a significant development that underscores the federal government’s steadfast commitment to strengthening cancer care and prevention in Nigeria.
“By prioritizing investments in both national and childhood cancer health funds, the government demonstrates a progressive approach toward reducing the burden of cancer and ensuring equitable access to life-saving interventions for all Nigerians,” Magashi said.
The AHBN noted with satisfaction the allocation of N2.48 trillion to the health sector.
He added that, “We are excited that the 2025 health budget proposal addresses critical areas for intervention, including maternal healthcare, infectious disease control, and other vital health initiatives.”
Dr Magashi stated that the AHBN is looking forward to working with the government and other stakeholders, to ensure the successful implementation of this proposal and to promote a healthier, more prosperous future for all Nigerians.
