The House of Representatives has begun an extensive investigation into the utilisation of over $4.6 billion in grants received from the Global Fund and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) for Nigeria’s health sector. The probe focuses on funds allocated to combat HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis (TB), malaria, and polio between 2021 and 2025.
The decision followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by Philip Agbese (APC, Benue) during plenary, presided over by the Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu. The House subsequently mandated its Committee on HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria Control to conduct a detailed inquiry into how the funds were spent and to submit a report within four weeks for further legislative action.
Agbese revealed that Nigeria had also received over $6 billion from the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) during the same period to combat HIV/AIDS and strengthen the nation’s healthcare systems. Despite these substantial inflows, Nigeria continues to record one of the highest global burdens of the three major diseases.
He noted with concern that despite several years of international support, health outcomes in Nigeria remain alarmingly poor, raising questions about the management, accountability, and transparency of the funds.
In a separate directive, the House ordered the Minister of Health and Social Welfare to present a full implementation plan, including National Assembly-approved expenditure details of all grants received, to ensure that the funds are being used for their intended purpose.
Lawmakers argued that the persistent rise in infections, coupled with reports of poorly equipped health facilities, suggests that billions of dollars in donor support may not be reaching targeted beneficiaries.
Agbese stressed that proper oversight is crucial to restore public trust and safeguard Nigeria’s relationship with its international partners. “We must ensure that every dollar and naira given to save lives in Nigeria is properly accounted for,” he said.
The House resolution reflects a renewed determination to address long-standing issues of mismanagement in Nigeria’s health sector and to ensure that future global health assistance delivers measurable results for citizens.
Observers say the outcome of this investigation could have far-reaching implications for donor confidence and future funding partnerships between Nigeria and its global health allies.
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