Minister advocates for financial support amidst declining U.S. Aid for ATM Programs

The Health Minister, Mohammed Pate, on Thursday advocated for greater financial support for HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria initiatives in Nigeria.

Pate made this appeal during his address to the House Committee on HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria (ATM) in Abuja. He emphasized the necessity of additional funding to bridge the gap created by the reduction of financial aid from the United States.

“For over 20 years, external partners have been the primary financiers of ATM management. We are grateful for the support received from the U.S. government over the years. Our current aim is to reposition ourselves so that no one is excluded from ATM programs,” he stated.

The minister acknowledged the commitment of the House Committee on ATM but pointed out that Nigeria's investment in healthcare is insufficient. He noted that overall health spending remains low, with external contributions accounting for under 10 percent.

Pate praised President Bola Tinubu for his support of domestic malaria kit production and expressed pleasure that Nigeria has started manufacturing malaria kits to address the disease.

The chairman of the House Committee on ATM, Godwin Ogah,  underscored the importance of providing free malaria treatment in Nigeria. He envisioned a malaria-free Nigeria by 2030, but stressed that further efforts are needed. The committee chairman recognized the minister's accomplishments and called for an increase in internal funding.