Nigeria Approves N6.45bn For New Oxygen Plants

Nigerian President, Muhammadu Buhari, has approved the disbursement of the sum of N6.45billion for setting up of oxygen plants in 38 locations nationwide to enhance the treatment of COVID-19 patients.

This was disclosed at the first National Economic Council (NEC) of 2021 presided over by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo.

Finance Minister, Zainab Ahmed said the President’s approval for the production of oxygen was necessitated by the increase in coronavirus patients.

In addition, at the NEC meeting, Health Minister Osagie Ehanire revealed that sequel to Buhari’s decision to activate the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund based on the National Health Act, N55.1billion was approved in 2018 and that 50% of the sum has since been released to the States and the FCT.

The Fund was established under Section 11 of the National Health Act (NHA Act), as the principal funding vehicle for the Basic Minimum Package of Health Services (BMPHS).

The minister also added that the country has surpassed a 20,000 milestone of active Covid-19 cases. The new figure stands at 20,877 hence the urgent need for the approved oxygen plants.

Patsy Nwogu

Reporting on data-driven featured stories and investigations.

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