LANDMARK MOVE: FEDERAL GOVERNMENT ENLISTS 2,497 MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS, INCLUDING DOCTORS, IN NEW INITIATIVE ‘JAPA

“In the past half-year, the federal administration has successfully enlisted 2,497 medical professionals, encompassing doctors, midwives/nurses, and community health extension workers, to alleviate the shortage of manpower in the health sector resulting from the emigration of healthcare workers.

Revealing these developments during a media briefing organized by the Ministry of Information and National Orientation, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Muhammad Ali Pate, highlighted that an additional 1,400 health facilities now boast skilled birth attendants.

He announced, “This surge in personnel has significantly elevated the monthly number of health facility deliveries to an impressive 230,000.”

Furthermore, the minister disclosed the government’s commitment to disburse N50bn as the initial installment of the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF). This catalytic fund aims to enhance access to primary healthcare.

Elaborating on this financial injection, he stated, “This monetary boost will rejuvenate our primary healthcare facilities, ensuring that top-notch care is within reach for all citizens.”

Addressing the escalating costs of pharmaceuticals as a critical concern, the minister assured that the federal government is taking resolute measures to tackle the issue. He declared, “In the short term, an executive order will be issued to control surging drug prices, while our mid to long-term objective involves the localization of imported drugs within the next three years, in collaboration with the Ministry of Trade.”

Ojoma Akor; From the news source: DailyTrust