President Muhammadu Buhari has approved ₦6.45 billion for the setting up of gas plants in 38 locations nationwide to enhance the treatment of Covid-19 patients who need oxygen.
The Presidential Task Force PTF on COVID-19 had on January 5, 2021, announced the approval by Buhari for the establishment of at least one oxygen plant in each state of the Federation to aid gas available for life support for sufferers of the infection.
However, the disclosure of the financial approval and details of the plan were made known on Thursday during the first National Economic Council (NEC) meeting of the year presided over by the Vice President Yemi Osinbajo in which Governors, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Central Bank Nigeria (CBN) Governor and other senior government officials participated.
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While briefing the NEC on the release of the funds, the Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Mrs. Zainab Ahmed, said the President approved the release of the funds for the production of oxygen, necessitated by the increased number of patients who need oxygen due to the surge in COVID-19 infections.
While briefing the NEC on the release of the funds, the Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Zainab Ahmed said the President approved the release of the funds for the production of oxygen, necessitated by the increased number of patients who need oxygen due to the surge in Covid-19 infections in the country.
Similarly at the meeting, the Health Minister Dr. Osagie Ehanire informed the Council that sequel to President 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.
Besides, the Federal Government has also allocated N35 billion for 2021 for the Fund. Recall that the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF or ‘The Fund’) was established under Section 11 of the National Health Act (NHA Act), as the principal funding vehicle
AFRICA TODAY NEWS, NEW YORK