The Federal Government has released N32.9 billion to primary health care centres (PHCs) across Nigeria under the Basic Health Care Provision Fund and urged citizens to take charge of how the money is spent.

The fund, which represents the third disbursement for 2025, is meant to strengthen health facilities at the grassroots and improve service delivery and was approved by the Ministerial Oversight Committee (MOC) and guided by the newly launched BHCPF 2.0 Guidelines.

Speaking yesterday during the 3rd Quarter MOC Meeting in Abuja, Prof. Pate emphasised that the new guidelines mark a major milestone in Nigeria’s health reform agenda under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He noted that a Joint Task Force, working closely with the ICPC, has been activated to ensure transparency and accountability in the use of the funds at the community levels. The Minister commended state governors, commissioners for health, and development partners for their continued collaboration in strengthening Nigeria’s primary healthcare 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.

The minister explained that the initiative gives each health centre the power to plan and spend with input from community members, traditional leaders, youth groups, and religious organisations. He described the programme as a renewed commitment to rebuild confidence in Nigeria’s health system.

The Minister also announced that a Mini Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) will be commissioned to provide updated data in 2026, helping the government assess progress in maternal and child health outcomes. According to the FG, preliminary data already show a 12% reduction in maternal mortality compared to 2023, signalling that reforms and investments are beginning to yield results.

He urged residents to visit their local health centres, join committees, and ensure that the funds were used to improve facilities and service delivery.

The Guardian had reported in May 2023 that more than 80 per cent of Nigeria’s 34,000 primary health centres were not functional. The report, backed by a study by PharmAccess Foundation, found that most centres lacked basic equipment, essential drugs, and adequate staff.

Health experts believe that the new funds could mark a turning point if Nigerians ensure strict monitoring and transparency at the grassroots.