The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr. Boss Mustapha has emphasised that the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari has displayed resolute determination in addressing corruption across all sectors of Nigerian society.
Mustapha highlighted the implementation of measures aimed at recovering stolen funds and assets, strengthening anti-corruption institutions, and ensuring accountability among public officials.
Speaking at the Return of GAVI direct programme funding ceremony in Abuja on Thursday, the SGF emphasised that the current administration has embarked on governance reforms with the goal of enhancing efficiency, transparency and accountability in the public sector.
“The Treasury Single Account (TSA), Whistle-blower Policy and Public Service Reforms are among the measures adopted to improve financial management, eliminate revenue leakages, and promote good governance,” Mustapha explained.
He further stated that a primary objective of the government is to transform the narrative surrounding resource management accountability within all ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs). He emphasized that the return of direct GAVI programme funding symbolises the Federal Government of Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to fighting corruption and establishing a stable governance framework.
Recognising the significance of the primary healthcare system in achieving universal health coverage, the government has made substantial investments to ensure continuous and high-quality healthcare services, according to Mustapha.
The Minister of Finance and Budget, Mrs. Zainab Ahmed highlighted the resumption of direct GAVI program funding through the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA). Ahmed emphasised that this funding, combined with rigorous fiduciary measures, will promote efficiency, accountability and transparency in resource allocation and utilisation.
Entrusting the NPHCDA with the responsibility of managing these funds will streamline approval processes, generate cost savings and strengthen health systems, she added.
Expressing gratitude for GAVI’s decision to extend their support until 2028, Ahmed acknowledged the invaluable expertise, guidance and technical assistance provided by GAVI. She emphasized that this gesture will contribute to saving more lives from vaccine-preventable diseases in Nigeria.
As Nigeria enters the accelerated phase of GAVI’s transition towards self-financing, the government acknowledges the need to navigate financial and programmatic risks. In response, the Nigeria Strategy on Immunisation and Primary Health Care Systems Strengthening (NSIPSS) has been developed, reaffirming the government’s commitment to accountability within the framework.
The Minister of Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire hailed the establishment of the Grant Compliance Coordinating Office (GCCO) within the NPHCDA, emphasising its role in ensuring the prudent utilisation of government and partner funds allocated to NPHCDA programmes.
Meanwhile, the executive director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr. Faisal Shuaib stated that this administration has actively worked to improve the agency’s reputation by establishing effective structures to combat impunity and enhance accountability.
The senior country manager of GAVI, Ms. Jessica Crawford commended the various partners for their innovative work in Nigeria’s health sector, expressing satisfaction with the collaborations taking place.
In 2017, the NPHCDA set sail with four strategic objectives aimed at achieving Universal Health Coverage, eradicating polio, strengthening the routine immunisation system and revitalising primary healthcare in Nigeria.
