The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved the establishment of the National Snakebite Treatment and Research Centre alongside health procurements worth N73.9 billion aimed at improving access to essential medicines and strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system.
The approvals were announced on Monday by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Ali Pate, after the weekly FEC meeting chaired by President Bola Tinubu.
Pate said Nigeria records an estimated 43,000 snakebite cases every year, with the North-East, North-West and North-Central regions accounting for the highest number of incidents.
According to him, the new centre will provide specialised treatment for snakebite victims, conduct research on prevention and management, ensure sustainable access to quality antivenom and collaborate with international partners to improve snakebite care.
The council also approved N6.9 billion for the National Blood Service Agency to procure 10 compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered mobile blood donation clinics. The mobile units are expected to improve blood donation, collection and distribution across the country.
In addition, FEC approved N62 billion for the procurement of tuberculosis (TB) commodities to strengthen Nigeria’s response to one of the world’s highest TB burdens. Pate said the move is designed to reduce dependence on foreign donors while supporting the eventual local production of TB medicines.
The council further approved N5 billion for the National Primary Health Care Development Agency to procure reproductive health and family planning commodities. The procurement is expected to improve maternal healthcare services and expand access to voluntary family planning nationwide.
Pate said the approvals reflect the Tinubu administration’s commitment to strengthening health infrastructure, expanding access to essential medicines and promoting local pharmaceutical manufacturing.
