The Federal Executive Council has approved major healthcare projects worth about N540 billion in Abuja.
The massive investment will upgrade the National Hospital and support the construction of a new cancer treatment centre.
The approvals could mark a major shift in Nigeria’s healthcare system. The projects are expected to improve access to specialised treatment and modern medical facilities.
Health Minister Ali Pate disclosed the approvals after Wednesday’s FEC meeting. He said the National Hospital has struggled with limited investment since its establishment about 25 years ago.
Under the N540bn National Hospital upgrade, several projects will now be delivered at the facility. They include new clinics, theatres, a hospital wing and a specialised Neuroscience Institute.
The council approved N64.92 billion for modular clinics and a theatre complex. Another N103 billion was approved for a new hospital wing.
A further N69 billion will fund the Neuroscience Institute. The facility will support neurosurgery, radiology, rehabilitation and other specialised services.
The biggest approval is the N302.3 billion National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT) centre.
The project is expected to improve cancer research, treatment and professional training.
Pate said the projects reflect President Bola Tinubu’s push to improve healthcare infrastructure nationwide.
“Quality healthcare is not cheap. To have the healthcare system we need, Nigeria has to invest in it,” Pate said.
The minister explained that funding for the projects comes through National Assembly appropriations.
The allocations are already included in the 2025 and 2026 budgets. He said the government wants Nigerians to see clear improvements when the projects are completed.
“Our goal is to ensure that they are executed, and that Nigerians can be able to see a transformation of the National Hospital, as well as a befitting cancer centre here at NICRAT,” Pate added.
The National Hospital projects have different completion timelines. The new cancer centre is expected to be completed within 36 months.
