The Federal Government has approved and released ₦32.9 billion through the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) for primary health care strengthening, marking the third round of disbursements in 2025.
The announcement was made on Wednesday by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, in a statement titled “The Red Letter.”
According to the minister, the funds have already begun reaching primary health care facilities in every ward across Nigeria, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the nation’s primary health care system.
“This money is not sitting in Abuja. It has already begun its journey into the commercial bank accounts of primary health care facilities in every ward across Nigeria,” Pate said.
“It is your clinic’s money. It is your community’s chance. It is your country’s promise.”
Pate emphasized that the BHCPF is designed to support Nigeria’s healthcare system by ensuring the delivery of basic health services, emergency care, and improved infrastructure at the grassroots level.
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He urged citizens to take active roles in monitoring and ensuring transparent use of the funds within their communities.
“The health committee in your ward, your traditional leaders, your women’s and youth groups, your faith-based organisations—all of you are meant to sit together, decide together, and spend together on what will make your facility stronger, safer, and more ready to serve,” he stated.
Pate noted that community participation is key to achieving accountability and sustainability in Nigeria’s healthcare sector. He lamented that many communities often remain silent or uninvolved in how funds are used, allowing mismanagement to go unchecked.
“Too often, we have observed that communities stand aside. Our community members and institutions do not ask how the money is used, or if it reaches the people it was meant for. When that happens, silence becomes a loss,” he said.
The minister described “The Red Letter” as a call to action, urging citizens to engage with health committees, review plans, demand transparency, and celebrate progress where achieved.
“Each naira in this ₦32.9 billion is a seed. When you nurture it with vigilance and pride, it grows into medicine, safe births, better infrastructure, and lives saved. When you neglect it, it withers into waste,” Pate added.
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He concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to accountability and shared responsibility in the health sector.
“Let this Red Letter reach every community, every ward, and every home. Let it remind us that the health of Nigeria lies in the hands of Nigerians. Together, we plan. Together, we spend. Together, we protect life.”
