The Federal Ministry of Health has received ₦36 million out of its ₦218 billion capital budget allocation for 2025, the Minister of Health has disclosed, according to reports.
The ₦218 billion was approved as part of the ministry’s capital expenditure in the 2025 federal budget. Capital allocations are intended to fund infrastructure projects, procure medical equipment, rehabilitate health facilities, and support long-term investments in the health sector. However, the minister confirmed that only ₦36 million has so far been released.
The disclosure comes despite earlier announcements by the Federal Government that health sector funding had been increased. In a statement published on its website, the Federal Ministry of Finance said the government raised the health budget by 60 percent as part of efforts to strengthen human capital development and improve healthcare delivery.
Budget tracking organisation BudgIT has previously highlighted gaps between approved allocations and actual releases in Nigeria’s health sector, noting that low implementation rates often affect service delivery and delay capital projects.
Nigeria’s health system continues to face structural challenges. A policy brief by the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) states that the sector is weighed down by inadequate funding, weak infrastructure, and governance issues that limit efficiency and sustainability.
Workforce shortages also remain a concern. An analysis by TC Health Nigeria points to ongoing medical brain drain, with doctors and other healthcare professionals leaving the country in large numbers for better pay and working conditions abroad.
Under Nigeria’s budget framework, funds approved by the National Assembly must be released by the Ministry of Finance before ministries and agencies can execute projects. Delays or partial releases can affect the pace and scope of implementation within a fiscal year.
