Atiku Abubakar demands a public audit of Nigeria’s $1.07 billion healthcare reforms under the HOPE programme, emphasizing transparency. The funds target primary healthcare improvements and maternal health services, but concerns arise regarding fund management and the timing of allocations. Atiku calls for a definitive policy to regulate fund use and scrutiny by the National Assembly.
Former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, has called for a public audit of the $1.07 billion allocated by the Federal Government for healthcare reforms through the HOPE initiative. Atiku emphasized the importance of transparency in managing these funds, asserting that the healthcare budget must not lead to misappropriation. This demand follows the Federal Executive Council’s announcement of the allocation, which includes N4.8 billion for HIV treatment.
The HOPE programme aims to advance human capital development in Nigeria, with a significant portion of the funding directed towards improving governance and enhancing primary healthcare services. Coordinating Minister of Health, Prof. Muhammad Pate, revealed that the funds will be utilized for strengthening healthcare infrastructures, including the recruitment of healthcare workers, and $500 million is specifically allocated to maternal and child health enhancements.
Despite these positive initiatives, Atiku expressed apprehension regarding the transparency of the fund allocation, specifically concerning foreign loans and international donations that finance the healthcare reforms. He cautioned that the government must be clear about how these funds will be utilized, demanding a policy document to protect against potential misuse and ensure accountability.
Atiku further criticized the timing surrounding the allocation for HIV treatment, labeling it as a reactive measure following the cancellation of U.S. aid. He urged the government to create a comprehensive plan and allow the National Assembly to scrutinize expenditures, reinforcing the need for oversight to prevent any potential misappropriation of public funds.
The Nigerian government has set aside considerable funding for reforms in the healthcare sector as part of its HOPE programme aimed at enhancing human capital. This initiative emphasizes improving governance and primary healthcare nationwide. The current scrutiny comes in light of concerns over fund management and transparency, especially following significant international aid influences and budgetary allocations derived from foreign sources.
Atiku Abubakar’s calls for a public audit of Nigeria’s healthcare funding highlight critical concerns regarding transparency and governance in expenditure. The proposed allocation aims to enhance health services but raises questions about clarity and potential misuse. By advocating for a detailed oversight framework, Atiku seeks to ensure that allocated funds effectively benefit Nigeria’s healthcare system without compromising on accountability.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
