President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has disclosed that recent engagements with the Government of the United States have opened access to over US$500 million in grant funding for targeted health interventions across Nigeria. The disclosure was made on Friday while presenting the N58 trillion 2026 budget to a joint sitting of the National Assembly.
Speaking during the address, Tinubu said the funding opportunity reflects growing international confidence in Nigeria’s reform agenda and health sector plans. He linked the development to ongoing efforts to strengthen human capital and improve healthcare delivery nationwide.
“We also appreciate the support of international partners,” the President told lawmakers. “Recent high-level engagements with the Government of the United States have opened the door to over US$500 million in grant funding for targeted health interventions across Nigeria.”
According to Tinubu, the Federal Government welcomes the partnership and has given assurances that the funds will be used responsibly. “We welcome this partnership and assure Nigerians that these resources will be deployed transparently and effectively,” he said.
The President made the remarks while outlining key priorities in the 2026 budget, themed “Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity.” He noted that the budget was prepared against an improving global outlook but remains focused on addressing Nigeria’s domestic needs, especially in health, education, and social protection.
Tinubu explained that healthcare remains a major pillar of the administration’s human capital development strategy. Under the 2026 budget proposal, the health sector is allocated ₦2.48 trillion. He further disclosed that investment in healthcare represents 6 percent of the total budget size, net of liabilities.
“In healthcare, I am pleased to highlight that investment in healthcare is 6% of total budget size, net of liabilities,” the President said during the presentation.
He stressed that stronger healthcare systems are essential for productivity, economic growth, and improved living standards. According to him, a healthy population supports national development by reducing vulnerabilities and improving workforce efficiency.
The President also linked the external health grants to broader reforms carried out over the past two and a half years. He said the reforms, though challenging, were necessary to rebuild confidence, stabilise the economy, and create a foundation for inclusive growth.
Tinubu assured the National Assembly that the government will maintain discipline in budget execution and accountability in the use of funds, including international grants. He said Nigerians should expect measurable outcomes from health investments, as transparency and effective delivery remain central to the administration’s approach in 2026.
Lawmakers acknowledged the disclosure as part of discussions on sustainable national development.
