The recent withdrawal of U.S. foreign aid to Nigeria’s health sector has served as a “wake-up call,” urging the country to re-evaluate its approach to healthcare funding and reduce reliance on foreign assistance, according to Nigeria’s Minister of State for Health, Iziaq Adekunle Salako.
Salako shared these remarks during a visit to the Federal Medical Center (FMC) in Ebute Meta, Lagos, on Friday.
While acknowledging the potential challenges posed by the aid cut, he reassured the public that efforts are already underway to engage international health organizations like the WHO and UNDP and explore alternative funding mechanisms, such as crowdfunding, to sustain critical health programs.
Addressing the ongoing cancer care project at FMC Ebute Meta, the minister reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to improving cancer treatment in Nigeria.
He said that the establishment of the Cancer Health Fund and the Catastrophic Health Fund, which have already reduced the cost of dialysis from ₦50,000 to ₦12,000 per session.
“The government is expanding treatment infrastructure, raising awareness, and promoting preventive measures to ensure cancer care remains affordable and accessible to all,” Salako stated.
In response to concerns about the shortage of hospital bed spaces, Salako noted that President Bola Tinubu has approved the creation of new federal medical centers and teaching hospitals nationwide, including one in Epe, Lagos.
He also emphasized that the government is increasing the annual budget allocation for the health sector to support the expansion of infrastructure and improve patient care.
Salako commended FMC Ebute Meta for its efficient use of limited space, describing it as a “small body, big engine.”
He praised the hospital’s paperless system and high-quality medical equipment, underscoring the institution’s potential to help curb medical tourism in Nigeria.
“FMC Ebute Meta is well-positioned to play a key role in reversing the trend of medical tourism. While improvements are still needed, I can confidently say the facility is excellent,” the minister affirmed.
During his tour of the hospital, Salako visited several departments, including the pediatric complex, oxygen center, dialysis center, specialist clinic, and others.
He was particularly impressed by the hospital’s electronic medical records (EMR) system and expressed support for nationwide adoption of similar digital health solutions through the Nigeria Digital and Health Initiative, which aims to ensure transparency and foster regional opportunities.
The Chief Medical Director of FMC Ebute Meta, Dr. Adedamola Dada addressed ongoing concerns about healthcare workers’ allowances.
He confirmed that the Nigerian Medical Association and other unions are in discussions with the federal government to improve workers’ pay and quality of life.
Dr. Dada also highlighted the hospital’s growth, noting that it has expanded from 72 beds to 450, with an annual patient load growing from 50,000 to over 200,000.
The facility is also the first public tertiary institution in Nigeria to reach Level 4 in the Safe Care Assessment Program, a testament to the high quality of care it provides.
Reflecting on the hospital’s success, Dada emphasized the importance of planning and innovation, urging other institutions to follow suit in improving quality care.
