By Zayamu Hassan
The Federal Government of Nigeria has called on state governments across the country to map out strategies for the implementation of the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF).
The Minister of Health, Dr Osagie Ehanire made the call at the sensitization meeting for Basic Healthcare Provision Fund State Oversight Committee, in Abuja, recently.
The meeting brought together Chairmen and Focal Persons of State Oversight Committees.
According to him, it was the first meeting convened with State Commissioners of Health on the BHCPF since the new guidelines for the administration, disbursement and monitoring of the BHCPF was approved by the National Council last year.
He explained that the operationalization of the BHCPF will not achieve its set objectives without a formal engagement of the State Oversight Committees in all states to enable them get familiar with the implementation of the Fund.
Dr Osagie noted that the 2020 guidelines require the Commissioners for Health with support of their State Oversight Committees to provide leadership and supervision for the BHCPF implementation in their state and to take responsibility for studying and approving annual work plans and reports.
“The BHCPF which is derived from 1% of the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the Federal Government and any other sources where available is a bold step towards achievement of Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
“It is also a demonstration of the commitment of the President Muhammadu Buhari-led government to population health of Nigerians.
“The implementation of the BHCPF began in 2019 with a total release to date of N85.95 billion, 65 per cent of which has been disbursed to the 36 States of the Federation and the FCT.”
The Minister disclosed that the BHCPF has began providing operational fund to nearly 7000 Primary Health Centres in 34 states of the Federation, while about one million poor and vulnerable citizens now have access to Basic Minimum Package of Health Services in 24 States.
Dr Osagie disclosed that there are, unfortunately, already reports of reckless and inappropriate financial practices in few states, which will not be tolerated, and will be followed up accordingly by the law.
He, therefore, urged the Commissioners to embrace the laudable intent behind the Fund and take necessary measures to ensure judicious use for the benefit of the people of your states.
