The House of Representatives has initiated a comprehensive investigation into the utilization of over $4.6 billion in health grants received by Nigeria from the Global Fund and USAID between 2021 and 2025.
These funds, totaling $1.8 billion from the Global Fund and $2.8 billion from USAID, were allocated to combat HIV, tuberculosis, malaria, and to strengthen Nigeria’s resilient and sustainable health systems.
The probe was set in motion during a plenary session today, following a motion by Hon. Mohammed Bello Shehu (APC, Katsina), who raised concerns about the transparency and effectiveness of the fund utilization amidst persistent health sector challenges.
The House Committee on Health, chaired by Hon. Amos Gwamna Magaji, will lead the investigation, focusing on agencies like the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).
Hon. Shehu’s motion highlighted the need for an audit to assess the impact of these investments on health outcomes and to identify any instances of misappropriation or mismanagement.
“These grants represent a significant opportunity to transform Nigeria’s health sector, but we must ensure they are used effectively and accountably,” he stated.
The investigation comes at a time when Nigeria’s health infrastructure faces critical gaps, despite receiving substantial international support.
The Global Fund and USAID aimed to address major diseases and enhance health system resilience, but concerns over corruption and inefficiencies have prompted legislative oversight.
The House’s action aligns with its constitutional mandate under Sections 88 and 89 to scrutinize public expenditure and ensure accountability.
Commissioner of Health Dr. Muhammad Pate acknowledged the grants’ importance but welcomed the probe, stating, “Transparency is key to building trust and achieving sustainable health outcomes.”
The committee’s findings are expected to inform future policy decisions and international partnerships, potentially reshaping how Nigeria manages global health funding.
This move reflects broader efforts by the National Assembly to address systemic issues in Nigeria’s health sector, following recent controversies over international aid utilization.
As the investigation unfolds, it will likely influence public discourse on governance, health policy, and Nigeria’s ability to leverage international support effectively.
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