Tag: USAID

  • USAID: US cuts foreign aid contracts by over 90%

    USAID: US cuts foreign aid contracts by over 90%

    United States has finally initiated a cut in its budget for foreign development and aid programmes, under the United States Agency for International Development, USAID, programme, significantly slashing the multi-year contracts by 92 percent or $54 billion.

    With the cut, about 5,800 identified foreign aid contracts have been gutted by the government.

    The cut in the US’ foreign aid programmes comes as the new administration of Donald Trump seeks to save as much as $60 billion from development and foreign humanitarian assistance.

    Trump had signed an executive order on assumption of office, demanding a 90-day freeze on all US foreign aid to give his administration time to review overseas spending, with a view to gutting programs not aligned with his “America First” agenda.

    A federal judge had on Tuesday given the Trump administration less than two days to unfreeze all aid after a previous court order issued nearly two weeks earlier went ignored.

    But the Trump administration filed an emergency petition to the US Supreme Court, which issued an administrative stay late Wednesday, pausing the lower court’s order.

    “At the conclusion of a process led by USAID leadership, including tranches personally reviewed by Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, nearly 5,800 awards with $54 billion in value remaining were identified for elimination as part of the America First agenda, a 92 percent reduction,” US State Department said in a statement.

    The administration’s review in part targeted multi-year foreign assistance contracts awarded by USAID, with the vast majority eliminated during its course.

    It also looked at more than 9,100 grants involving foreign assistance, valued at more than $15.9 billion.

    Following the review, 4,100 grants worth almost $4.4 billion were targeted to be eliminated, an 28 percent reduction.

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    “These commonsense eliminations will allow the bureaus, along with their contracting and grants officers, to focus on remaining programs, find additional efficiencies and tailor subsequent programs more closely to the administration’s America First priorities,” the State Department statement said.

    USAID distributes US humanitarian aid around the world, with health and emergency programs in around 120 countries.

    Programs that were not cut included food assistance, life-saving medical treatments for diseases like HIV and malaria, and support for countries including Haiti, Cuba, Venezuela and Lebanon, among others, the State Department spokesperson said.

  • Ndume calls for probe into USAID’s operations

    Ndume calls for probe into USAID’s operations

    Senator Ali Ndume (APC/Borno South) has called for an investigation into the operations of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in Nigeria.

    Speaking on Wednesday during an appearance on Arise News programme, Prime Time, the former Senate Chief Whip said US President Donald Trump’s decision to stop USAID funding is Nigeria’s opportunity to probe their activities.

    His comment comes days after US Congressman Scott Perry, representing Pennsylvania, alleged that USAID had been funding terrorist organisations globally, including Boko Haram.

    Ndume said Perry’s allegation came at a time when the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, also warned that Boko Haram terrorists were being trained and funded by international organisations.

    He said, “They come under the pretence of helping when you are in dire need so you don’t have the right to question any suspicions. Stopping their funding is our opportunity to investigate.”

    Speaking further, Ndume said the Nigerian military and security agencies are handicapped because they can’t question USAID’s activities.

    “Security agencies or the federal government do not have the backing or right to question the activities of international organisations,” he added.

    Meanwhile, the United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, on Wednesday night said there is no evidence that the USAID is funding Boko Haram or any terrorist group.

    He assured all that if any evidence is found, the US government will work with the Nigerian government to investigate it.

    The Senate has since summoned top security chiefs for a closed-door session over the allegation that the agency has been funding Boko Haram activities in the country.

    National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, along with the Directors-General of the Department of State Services, National Intelligence Agency and Defence Intelligence Agency, will appear before the Senate to provide explanations regarding the claims.

  • BREAKING: US Ambassador Refutes Claim of USAID Funding Boko Haram

    BREAKING: US Ambassador Refutes Claim of USAID Funding Boko Haram

    Richard Mills, the United States Ambassador to Nigeria has refuted allegation that the United States Agency for International Development, (USAID) is funding Boko Haram or any terrorist group, asserting that there is no evidence.

    Mills declared at the aftermath of meeting with the Nigeria Governors Forum in Abuja late Wednesday night that no nation condemns Boko Haram’s destruction more greater than the US.

    He affirmed that if any evidence is discovered, the US government will collaborate with the Nigerian government in it investigation.

    TodayPriceNG had earlier reported that on February 13, Congressman Scott Perry accused USAID of funding terrorist groups, not excluding Boko Haram.

    Boko Haram is a terrorist group established in year 2002 by Mohammed Yusuf. The group’s motives is the promotion of Sunni Islam and terminating Shia Islam in Nigeria.

    In previous years, many Nigerians lives had been lost, properties worth billions of Naira has been destroyed, while many families have experience displacement.

    Perry, a Republican from Pennsylvania, made the declaration during the first hearing of the Subcommittee on Delivering on Government Efficiency.

    The session, titled “The War on Waste: Stamping Out the Scourge of Improper Payments and Fraud,” centered on alleged misappropriations of taxpayer funds.

    “Who gets some of that money? Does that name ring a bell to anybody in the room? Because your money, your money, $697 million annually, plus the shipments of cash funds in Madrasas, ISIS, Al-Qaeda, Boko Haram, ISIS Khorasan, terrorist training camps. That’s what it’s funding,” he stated.

    In a reaction, the Senate has beckoned on the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, including the heads of the National Intelligence Agency and the Defence Intelligence Agency, to tackle allegations of terrorist funding with the involvement of USAID.

    While answering a question, the US Ambassador declared that the US has rigid policies in the prevention of USAID or any other US assistance from being redirected to terrorist groups like Boko Haram.

    He stated, “Let me be clear—there is no friend of Nigeria stronger in condemning Boko Haram’s violence and disregard for human life than the United States. We have designated Boko Haram as a foreign terrorist organisation since 2013, blocking the group from transferring assets to the US and allowing us to arrest and seize its members.

    “We cooperate in investigations with the Nigerian government. I can assure you that we have strict policies and procedures to ensure that USAID funding or any other US assistance, whether from USAID, the Department of Defence, or the State Department, is not diverted to terrorist groups like Boko Haram.

    “There is absolutely no evidence of such diversion, and if we ever had evidence that any programme funding was being misused by Boko Haram, we would immediately investigate it with our Nigerian partners.

    “So, when it comes to Boko Haram, the United States stands with Nigeria in wanting to rid this country of the scourge that this organisation represents.”

    He cleared the air that President Donald Trump’s administration did not stop assistance but implemented a 90-day pause to develop ways in making it more effective.

    Mills highlighted, “No assistance has been cut yet, and no decisions have been made about the future of our assistance. In fact, US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, has said that this is not about ending foreign assistance to our partners like Nigeria. It’s about making our assistance more effective and aligning it with US government policies and interests.

    “That’s what this 90-day pause is for. However, there are waivers for life-saving assistance, such as support for HIV patients, maternal and child nutrition, and internally displaced people. So that continues. In 90 days, we will know where we stand.”

    In relation to other issues discussed with the 36 state governors, the US Ambassador stated that he highlighted the embassy’s vision for the future of the US-Nigerian relationship.

    He stated, “I explained to them that we are going to focus on four key priorities in the coming years. The first is improving the business environment to increase trade and investment between the United States and Nigeria.

    “Second, a renewed focus on improving transparency and accountability in Nigeria, fighting corruption, and empowering Nigerian voices advocating for more transparency.

    “Third, we want to be more engaged at the subnational level, at the state level, and with local governing authorities. I believe the embassy needs to engage more in this area as we develop our programs and assistance.

    “Lastly, we discussed our health care programmes, which are a large part of US assistance to Nigeria. As these programmes succeed—such as reducing HIV cases and eradicating polio—we want to ensure their sustainability and transition them to the Nigerian government at the federal and state levels.”

    Mills declared that the target is to foster the sustainability of these health programmes and bring them to the Nigerian government for adequate management, helping to establish a healthcare

  • Fallouts of Trump’s executive order in Nigeria: Programmes stoppage, job losses trail USAID funds freeze

    Fallouts of Trump’s executive order in Nigeria: Programmes stoppage, job losses trail USAID funds freeze

    LAGOS — Apprehension has continued to trail the recent Executive Order by President of the United States of America, Donald Trump to halt foreign aid to African countries as thousands of employees at the US Agency for International Development, USAID, are to commence on compulsory leave from today.

    The order halting the USAID funding to organisations outside the US has sent shock waves through Nigerian development programmes circles with several local organisations that rely entirely on the agency’s funding being forced to dismiss staff, cancel programme activities, and abandon life-saving interventions, raising fears of a humanitarian and development crisis.

    But it was not all worries for African countries, as a federal judge on Wednesday blocked Trump’s attempt to restrict birthright citizenship in the United States in a blow to the president’s bid to end a right enshrined in the US Constitution for more than a century.

    While some stakeholders have condemned the step taken by the US government against USAID, citing implications for the common people who are the main beneficiaries of the programmes, some insist it serves as a wake-up call for Nigeria and other African countries to look inward.

    Vanguard gathered that the order has also sparked fears of people losing their jobs due to the setback this might cause to non-governmental organisations affiliated to USAID in Nigeria.

    USAID-affiliated NGOs shutting down

    Currently, some of these organisations have shut down, awaiting further directives from their funders.
    For example, a family planning training programme planned for Abuja by one of such organisations was abruptly cancelled just two days before its launch due to the funding freeze.

    The USAID programmes are crucial for global development, promoting U.S. national security and economic prosperity while empowering self-reliance in recipient nations.

    In Nigeria, USAID focuses on economic growth, food security, health, governance, gender equality, renewable energy, and stability in conflict-affected areas.

    Nigeria is sixth among the top countries that are the highest beneficiaries of USAID. In 2023, Nigeria received $1.02 billion, much of it through agencies like USAID.

    For instance, USAID’s initiatives in Nigeria address key challenges through various programmes. The Feed the Future Initiative boosts agricultural productivity and market access for farmers, improving incomes and food security.

    USAID also works to enhance trade by supporting Customs reform and improving transportation infrastructure, while also boosting private sector capacity and export opportunities.

    The E-WASH project tackles urban water and sanitation issues in six states, aiming to provide clean water access to millions of Nigerians.“In the health sector, USAID works to improve access to family planning, reproductive health services, and immunisations. The agency also collaborates with various partners to strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to manage tuberculosis cases and reinforce primary health care.

    Disruptions from USAID fund freeze

    Speaking to Vanguard in Lagos, Chairman of the Management Committee Association for the Advancement of Family Planning, Dr. Ejike Orji said the sudden freeze has disrupted critical programmes for organisations that depend on USAID for 100 percent of their funding.

    With no notice, staff salaries would be cut, advocacy campaigns halted, and vital training programmes cancelled.

    He said: “We had everything in place, partners, participants, and logistics. But the funding halt forced us to scrap the programme entirely. The ripple effects will be felt across the communities we were meant to serve.”

    Orji explained that similar programmes in Lagos, Sokoto, Bauchi, and other regions, aimed at building civil society advocacy for family planning and immigration reform, have also been indefinitely postponed.
    He said the health sector, a key focus of USAID’s support in Nigeria, is currently facing devastating consequences.

    “Nigeria has one of the highest numbers of people on anti-retroviral drugs in Africa. A disruption to this supply could result in a surge of HIV-related deaths and new infections.“

    The loss of funding for family planning will lead to more children being born into poverty, increasing Nigeria’s population growth rate and straining public resources,” said Orji. Noting that agriculture and food security are already threatened, he said in addition to health, agriculture programmes supported by USAID are also facing uncertainty.

    “The loss of agricultural funding will push vulnerable communities further into poverty,” the development expert stated.

    Without these interventions, smallholder farmers will struggle to adapt to climate change and improve productivity.”

    It has negative impact on Nigeria — Ezechi

    Also commenting, the Director of Research at the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, NIMR, Lagos, Prof. Oliver Ezechi, said the removal of funding would impact negatively on the programmes in Nigeria.“He said: “Let me put it in better perspective, although these governments started investing, they did not do enough, hence the panic following Trump’s executive order. Truly, the removal of funding will impact negatively on the programmes.

    A sudden withdrawal can disrupt ongoing services, leading to immediate gaps in care, particularly for vulnerable populations reliant on these essential health services.““The risks of increased morbidity and

    mortality from these diseases loom large, as the absence of support may spark a resurgence of these illnesses.

    Economically, health crises can strain national systems, resulting in higher healthcare costs and loss of productivity. Also, the loss of US funding which often comes with technical expertise and support could undermine existing infrastructure and capacity-building efforts.“

    However, there may be silver linings to this challenging situation. The cessation of US funding could encourage countries to take greater responsibility for their public health initiatives, promoting a sense of ownership and accountability among these governments.““This shift might prompt them to allocate more resources and develop sustainable funding mechanisms. In addition, with reduced reliance on U.S. support, countries could diversify their funding sources, seeking alternative partnerships with other international organisations, NGOs, or private-sector investments.

    Meanwhile, to close the gaps, the Federal Executive Council, FEC, has approved $1.07 billion for healthcare sector reforms under the Human Capital Opportunities for Prosperity and Equity, HOPE, programme. The council also allocated N4.8 billion for HIV treatment, signalling a significant investment in Nigeria’s health sector.

    The country has also launched a committee to develop a transition and sustainability plan for USAID-funded health programmes following the 90-day halt of most foreign aid. The multi-ministerial committee aims to secure new financial support for critical health programmes.“The committee comprises officials from the ministries of finance, health, and environment and intends to ensure that patients receiving treatment for HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria do not experience setbacks amid the uncertainty over U.S. foreign policy.

    Judge blocks Trump’s birthright citizenship order

    The ruling indefinitely bans enforcement of one of Trump’s most controversial executive orders, which was due to come into effect nationwide on February 19.

    The denial of the precious right to citizenship will cause irreparable harm,” District Judge Deborah Boardman was reported as saying during the hearing at a Maryland court.“She noted that Supreme Court precedent protects birthright citizenship, adding that Trump’s order “conflicts with the plain language of the 14th Amendment,” the Washington Post reported.

    No court in the country has ever endorsed the president’s interpretation,” she said. “This court will not be the first.

    The injunction adds to a 14-day stay on enforcement of Trump’s executive order issued in January by a federal judge in Washington.“There, US District Judge John Coughenour condemned the order as “blatantly unconstitutional,” though Trump quickly told reporters he planned to appeal the ruling.

    “Birthright citizenship is enshrined in the US Constitution under the 14th Amendment which decrees that anyone born on US soil is a citizen.“Trump’s order was premised on the idea that anyone in the United States illegally, or on a visa, was not “subject to the jurisdiction” of the country, and therefore excluded from this category.“His opponents have argued that the 14th Amendment, which was ratified in 1868 as the United States sought to recover from the Civil War, has been settled law for over a century.

    They have cited an 1898 US Supreme Court ruling in the case of a Chinese-American man named Wong Kim Ark, who was denied reentry to the United States on the grounds that he was not a citizen.

    The court affirmed that children born in the United States, including those born to immigrants, could not be denied citizenship.

    Communication plays a vital role in our economic activities and social inclusion so this tariff hike will disproportionately affect low-income individuals who rely heavily on affordable data and call services for their livelihoods.

    This move will exacerbate existing inequalities, widen the digital divide, and hinder efforts to promote accessibility, especially for persons with disabilities who depend on technology for daily activities. Rather than this blanket tariff increase, the FG should explore alternative measures to generate revenue.
    Affordability of telecom services is not just an economic issue but also a social justice imperative.
    —Susan Kelechi, Human Rights Advocate

    My concern is that our government seems to forget that any increase in tariffs in Nigeria will primarily affect the masses. For the government to hike telecom tariffs is another big problem.

    I do not blame the service providers—they have many expenses to cover to ensure their operations run smoothly. I just plead with them to reconsider and reduce the 50% increase. People are suffering. Please, let us think of the masses.
    —Olademeji Ayodele, Entrepreneur

    Many low-income households may struggle to afford telecom services, thus exacerbating the digital divide. Moreover, the increase will have a ripple effect on businesses, particularly SMEs, which rely heavily on telecom services.

    This could lead to increased costs, reduced competitiveness, and even job losses. However, the increased revenue generated from this hike could be used to improve the country’s telecommunications infrastructure, leading to better services which could impactthe economy positively.
    —Esaigun Akpobome, Legal practioner

    The 50% increase in telecom tariffs can be described as inconsiderate, given the current economic climate. With the rate of inflation already demoralizing, simultaneous price hikes across different sectors are severely straining citizens’ financial resources.

    Telecommunications have been one of the few comforts people rely on, but this increase will only cause more harm than good. It is essential to reconsider this decision, taking into account the welfare of the citizens and the overall economic well-being of the nation.
    —Ashaolu Praise, Administrator

    The FG’s approach of increasing taxes to raise funds is counter-productive, as it negatively affects citizens and worsens inflation. This 50% tariff hike will force telecom providers to increase service costs, indirectly overtaxing an already overburdened populace, which is detrimental to the country’s growth. I strongly advise the FG to revive companies like NITEL or build new ones.

    We must vote for leaders who will promote local production and prioritize providing goods and services instead of implementing excessive tax hikes and relying on imported services.
    —Emmanuel Ikule, Human Rights Advocate

  • USAID funding cut threatens development programmes in Nigeria

    USAID funding cut threatens development programmes in Nigeria

    Emotions have continued to trail the recent Executive Order by President Donald Trump to halt foreign aid to African countries as thousands of employees at the US Agency for International Development (USAID) are to commence on compulsory leave from Friday, February 7, 2025.

    The sudden halt the USAID funding to organizations outside the US has sent shockwaves through Nigerian development programmes circles with several local organisations that rely entirely on the agency’s funding being forced to dismiss staff, cancel programme activities, and abandon life-saving interventions, raising fears of a humanitarian and development crisis.

    While some stakeholders have condemned the step taken by the US government, citing implications for the common people who are the main beneficiaries of the programmes, some insist it serves as a wake-up call for Nigeria and other African countries to begin to look inward.

    Findings by Vanguard revealed that the order has also sparked fear of people losing their jobs due to the setback this might cause to Non -governmental organisations that are affiliated to USAID in Nigeria.

    Presently, some of these organisations have shutdown, waiting for further directives from their funders. For example, a family planning training programme planned for Abuja by one of such organisations was abruptly cancelled just two days before its launch due to the funding freeze.

    The USAID programmes are crucial for global development, promoting U.S. national security and economic prosperity while empowering self-reliance in recipient nations.

    In Nigeria, USAID focuses on economic growth, food security, health, governance, gender equality, renewable energy, and stability in conflict-affected areas.

    Nigeria is 6th among the top countries that are the highest beneficiaries of USAID. In 2023, Nigeria received $1.02 billion, much of it through agencies like USAID.

    For instance, USAID’s initiatives in Nigeria address key challenges through various programmes. The Feed the Future Initiative boosts agricultural productivity and market access for farmers, improving incomes and food security.

    USAID also works to enhance trade by supporting customs reform and improving transportation infrastructure, while also boosting private sector capacity and export opportunities.

    The E-WASH project tackles urban water and sanitation issues in six states, aiming to provide clean water access to millions of Nigerians.

    In the health sector, USAID works to improve access to family planning, reproductive health services, and immunisations. They also collaborate with various partners to strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to manage tuberculosis cases and reinforce primary health care. These multifaceted programmes demonstrate USAID’s commitment to Nigeria’s development, fostering empowerment, resilience, and a brighter future.
    Sadly, if the executive orders pass through after 90 days, these programmes will suffer, although the Nigerian government said it has launched a committee to develop a transition and sustainability plan for USAID-funded health programmes following. .

    Speaking to Vanguard in Lagos, the Chairman of the Management Committee Association for the Advancement of Family Planning, Dr Ejike Orji said the sudden freeze has disrupted critical programmes for organisations that depend on USAID for 100 per cent of their funding.

    “With no notice, staff salaries would be cut, advocacy campaigns halted, and vital training programmes cancelled.
    Orji said: “For example, a family planning training program planned for Abuja was abruptly cancelled just two days before its launch due to the funding freeze.

    “We had everything in place—partners, participants, and logistics. But the funding halt forced us to scrap the programme entirely. The ripple effects will be felt across the communities we were meant to serve.”

    Orji explained that similar programmes in Lagos, Sokoto, Bauchi, and other regions, aimed at building civil society advocacy for family planning and immigration reform, have also been indefinitely postponed.

    He said the health sector, a key focus of USAID’s support in Nigeria, is currently facing devastating consequences. USAID provides 80 per cent of Nigeria’s resources for managing diseases like HIV and malaria. The withdrawal of these funds threatens to undo decades of progress.

    He warned that without USAID support, there would be an immediate crisis.

    “Nigeria has one of the highest numbers of people on antiretroviral drugs in Africa. A disruption to this supply could result in a surge of HIV-related deaths and new infections.”

    The impact extends beyond HIV. Family planning programmes are also in jeopardy, potentially leading to a rise in unintended pregnancies and maternal mortality.

    “The loss of funding for family planning will lead to more children being born into poverty, increasing Nigeria’s population growth rate and straining public resources,” said Orji.

    Noting that agriculture and food security were already threatened, he said in addition to health, agriculture programmes supported by USAID are also facing uncertainty.

    These programs, he said provide farmers with training, resources, and market access, and play a crucial role in ensuring food security for millions.

    The loss of agricultural funding will push vulnerable communities further into poverty,” the development expert stated.

    “Without these interventions, smallholder farmers will struggle to adapt to climate change and improve productivity.”

    Stating that the Nigerian government has established a committee to assess the fallout and explore mitigation strategies, he said while the move is welcomed, more decisive action is needed.

    “This is a wake-up call for African countries. We cannot continue to depend entirely on foreign aid. The government must step up and prioritize local funding for critical sectors,” Orji said.

    Stating that the committee is also considering alternative funding sources and partnerships to fill the gap left by USAID, he said implementation challenges remain, and time is of the essence.

    “The crisis raises concerns about the long-term impact on Nigeria’s development goals. In the short term, health outcomes will deteriorate, while in the long term, the loss of funding could undermine efforts to eradicate HIV and achieve sustainable population growth.

    “This isn’t just about money. It’s about lives. It’s about the future of a nation. The government must act swiftly to prevent a full-blown disaster.”

    Orji noted that while USAID’s funding freeze stems from political and budgetary constraints in the United States, its impact on countries like Nigeria is profound.

    According to him, “Nigeria must learn to stand on its own. This is a painful but necessary lesson. It’s time to

    invest in ourselves and take control of our destiny.”

    Also commenting, the Director of Research at the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, NIMR, Lagos, Professor Oliver Ezechi, said the removal of funding will impact negatively on the programmes in Nigeria.

    He said a sudden withdrawal can disrupt ongoing services, leading to immediate gaps in care, particularly for vulnerable populations reliant on these essential health services.

    Ezechi also argued that President Donald Trump’s executive order to stop funding for these programmes did not come as a surprise to many of them, rather, it was a day foretold.

    He said for several years now, they have been informed that U.S. support for funding these programmes in various countries would continue to dwindle and may even cease entirely.

    He said already, the various initiatives have indeed seen U.S. support decline over the years, lamenting that the problem is that governments of benefiting countries did not take the warning seriously and failed to gradually assume greater ownership.

    “Let me put it in better perspective: although these governments started investing, they did not do enough, hence the panic following Trump’s executive order. Truly, the removal of funding will impact negatively on the programs. A sudden withdrawal can disrupt ongoing services, leading to immediate gaps in care, particularly for vulnerable populations reliant on these essential health services.

    “The risks of increased morbidity and mortality from these diseases loom large, as the absence of support may spark a resurgence of these illnesses. Economically, health crises can strain national systems, resulting

    in higher healthcare costs and lost productivity. Also, the loss of U.S. funding which often comes with technical expertise and support could undermine existing infrastructure and capacity-building efforts.

    “However, there may be silver linings to this challenging situation. The cessation of U.S. funding could encourage countries to take greater responsibility for their public health initiatives, promoting a sense of ownership and accountability among these governments.

    “This shift might prompt them to allocate more resources and develop sustainable funding mechanisms. In addition, with reduced reliance on U.S. support, countries could diversify their funding sources, seeking alternative partnerships with other international organisations, NGOs, or private-sector investments.”

    He said while the transition may be fraught with immediate challenges, it could lead to a more resilient and self-sufficient approach to public health in the long run.

    Meanwhile, to close the gaps, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved $1.07 billion for healthcare sector reforms under the Human Capital Opportunities for Prosperity and Equity (HOPE) programme. The council also allocated N4.8 billion for HIV treatment, signalling a significant investment in Nigeria’s health sector.

    The country has also launched a committee to develop a transition and sustainability plan for USAID-funded health programmes following the 90-day halt of most foreign aid. The multi-ministerial committee aims to secure new financial support for critical health programmes.

    The committee comprises officials from the ministries of finance, health, and environment—intends to ensure that patients receiving treatment for HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria do not experience setbacks amid the uncertainty over U.S. foreign policy.

  • USAID commits $2.3m to purchase malaria drugs in Nigeria

    USAID commits $2.3m to purchase malaria drugs in Nigeria

    The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has announced a $2.3 million commitment to purchase malaria treatment tablets, a significant boost for public health efforts in Nigeria.

    This announcement was made via a statement issued by the United States (US) embassy in Abuja, Nigeria, on Tuesday, November 12.

    This procurement, to be facilitated through the U.S. Government’s President’s Malaria Initiative (PMI), underscores the United States’ dedication to advancing Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure and ensuring life-saving treatments reach vulnerable communities.
    “The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has committed $2.3 million to procure 4.8 million doses of life-saving malaria tablets from Swiss Pharma (Swipha) in a landmark partnership that will expand access to essential medicines in Nigeria and West Africa,” the statement read.

    USAID’s investment highlights an ongoing focus on providing life-saving treatments to communities vulnerable to malaria.

    Strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare with global-quality medicines
    Nigeria has faced significant challenges in procuring affordable, high-quality medicines due to the high cost of production. Many local pharmaceutical companies face high costs and struggle to meet international quality standards.

    According to the World Health Organization (WHO), fewer than 10% of medicines manufactured in sub-Saharan Africa meet global standards, limiting local companies’ ability to supply essential drugs and meet healthcare needs.

    These barriers have particularly affected access to medicines for malaria and child health, as local production has often fallen short of both quality and quantity requirements.

    In response, USAID partnered with Swipha in their efforts to attain World Health Organization (WHO) prequalification for sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine (SP) tablets, a vital medicine for malaria prevention during pregnancy.

    Swipha is now the first pharmaceutical company in Nigeria and in West Africa to achieve this WHO certification, marking a critical step forward for the region’s pharmaceutical capacity.

    “USAID’s support was pivotal in helping us reach this milestone,” said Swipha Managing Director Frederic Lieutaud. “The WHO prequalification not only validates our commitment to producing high-quality medicines but also enhances our capacity to scale production and serve both local and international markets with trusted, essential medicines.”

    With the WHO prequalification, Swipha is well-positioned to expand its reach, supplying these essential medicines to international donors and procurement agencies, ultimately strengthening healthcare delivery across Nigeria and the broader West African region.

    This achievement also represents a significant boost to Nigeria’s healthcare system by enhancing local manufacturing capacity and contributing to public health efforts to combat preventable diseases.

    Building a healthier future through collaboration
    USAID Mission Director to Nigeria, Melissa Jones, said this achievement is a testament to the power of collaboration in improving healthcare in Nigeria.

    “We are proud to have supported Swipha in reaching this milestone and look forward to continuing our partnership to ensure more quality medicines reach those who need them most. Together, we are building a healthier future for Nigeria.”