The North East Health Awareness Forum (NEHCAF) has expressed serious concern over the inability of the Federal Ministry of Health to access the budgeted sum of ₦218 billion in capital expenditure for 2025, as only ₦36 million was reportedly released. The disclosure was contained in a statement distributed to journalists by the Chairman of the Forum, Abdullahi Ahmad, and the Secretary, Ummu Kulsum Rabiu. The Forum stated, “Our attention has been drawn to the widely circulated publication in various national dailies of a statement credited to the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Mohammed Ali Pate, alleging that out of the ₦218 billion capital project funds appropriated for the health sector in 2025, only ₦36 million was released.”It added, “We express our profound shock and astonishment at this revelation made by the Coordinating Minister. It is alarming to learn that only ₦36 million has been received by the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare out of the staggering ₦218 billion earmarked for this critical sector.”The statement further noted, “This disclosure raises serious concerns about transparency and the effective management of healthcare resources in Nigeria. We remain committed to advocating for the necessary reforms to ensure that financial resources are not only allocated but also effectively utilised for the benefit of all Nigerians.”It urged stakeholders, “We urge all stakeholders, including government officials, civil society, and the media, to collaborate in addressing these concerns and to work towards a more accountable and responsive health financing system.”The Forum concluded, “Together, we can ensure that the promise of quality healthcare is fulfilled for every Nigerian.”

Source: Nigerian Tribune February 11, 2026 21:52 UTC