UNDP Applauds Nigeria’s $200m Healthcare Funding.
By Ferdinand Olise
The United Nations’ Assistant Secretary General, Ms. Ahunna Eziakonwa, has commended Nigeria’s government and the National Assembly for voting two hundred million dollars for healthcare in Nigeria.
The commendation followed the withdrawal of funding assistance by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
The United Nations’ Assistant Secretary General, who is also the African Regional Director for the United Nations Development Programme, (UNDP), stated this in Lagos State at a meeting with a delegation of the House of Representatives led by the Deputy Speaker, Honourable Benjamin Kalu.
She said Nigeria’s action sets a precedent on the continent, noting that by filling the funding gap, Nigeria has demonstrated leadership in looking inward to improve the lives of its people, rather than relying solely on foreign donors.
She said, “When in New York, I got the news that when USAID withdrew funding from Nigeria, where it is funding a lot in the health sector, the Assembly sat down and voted 200 million dollars to fill the gap. I felt proud as a Nigerian, because that’s what makes of governance. You can’t outsource the health of the population, that’s going to secure the future.
“So, while other countries were in panic, New York Times was carrying headlines of people dying because of the withdrawal and Nigeria was saying we got this. I felt that’s leadership.
“So, I say to National Assembly, kudos. That’s Nigeria leading by example because every country in Africa should follow suit and say our people’s lives matter. This is a priority for us. It’s our responsibility to not let our people die”.
In response to the Deputy Speaker’s request for a strategic partnership, particularly on the ongoing constitutional reforms, gender bills, seat reservation, and political inclusion, Eziakonwa affirmed the UNDP’s support. She highlighted the importance of gender equality, especially in times of global challenges.
Eziakonwa who was accompanied to the meeting by the Resident Representative in Nigeria, Ms. Elsie G. Attafuah, said this is the first time she is being sought out by the leadership of the National Assembly.
“It speaks volumes, the length and breath of your vision for the Assembly and what it stands for. Everything you’ve said so far has been music to my ears, starting from your journey to bring more women into political leadership. What you’re championing is close to my heart and close to UNDP’s heart. I want to congratulate you for being a He for She.
“As a Nigerian woman I feel embarrassed when I look at the composition of women in our political landscape compared to the rest of Africa.
I always say to myself Nigeria should know better, with our population, it’s delusional to think you can make progress in the absence of these women in decision making and leadership.
“Every country on this African continent, needs to take in the urgency of the times, and If you’re pushing for gender equality and empowerment, you should do so in the lens of the needs for countries to weather the shock the world is facing.
